The Apache AH-64 attack helicopter has reached a major milestone with the successful live-fire test of the 30x113mm XM1225 Aviation Proximity Explosive (APEX) round at Yuma Proving Ground, Arizona.
In December 2025, the Apache conducted its first air-to-air engagement using 30 mm proximity-fuzed ammunition against unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) at varying ranges. The demonstration highlighted the round’s precision, versatility, and lethality against both aerial and ground threats.
Developed by Product Manager Medium Caliber Ammunition at Picatinny Arsenal, New Jersey, the XM1225 APEX cartridge is designed to defeat modern threats including UAS, exposed personnel, and small boats. Importantly, it requires no modifications to the Apache’s M230 Area Weapon System or fire control system, enabling seamless integration. The round has undergone extensive safety and reliability testing to ensure operational effectiveness.
The test brought together experts from Project Manager Apache, the Army Evaluation Center, DEVCOM Aviation and Missile Center, DEVCOM Armaments Center, Yuma Test Center, and Redstone Test Center. Conducted at Yuma Test Center, the event evaluated XM1225 accuracy and compared it to the legacy M789 High Explosive Dual Purpose (HEDP) round under identical conditions. Mixed-load testing against ground and aerial targets was also assessed.
Initial results showed the XM1225 met all accuracy requirements and performed exceptionally against both UAS and ground targets. Its proximity fuze detonates near the target, creating a larger lethal radius and improving effectiveness against dispersed or airborne threats.
Test pilots emphasized the round’s enhanced burst radius and ballistic similarity to existing HEDP ammunition, noting it adds lethality without increasing training burdens. Officials credited close coordination among agencies for the safe and successful execution of the test.
The XM1225 APEX round strengthens the Apache’s combat capability, accelerating fielding efforts and providing warfighters with a critical edge against evolving threats.
Source: U.S. Army