Boeing Links AH-64E Apache to the Army’s Next-Generation Command Network
Boeing says it has demonstrated an AH-64E Apache exchanging data with the US Army’s future command-and-control network, linking cockpit information to the wider force. The company published the results on October 20, 2026. Boeing also reported separate laboratory work to integrate a Launched Effects capability through its Version 6.5 open systems architecture.
The data-sharing demonstration was carried out with software company Raft. Boeing said the integration took a matter of months and relied on open interfaces.
The Apache’s Data Link to the Army Network
With Raft, Boeing demonstrated two-way data sharing that brought the Joint Force’s Common Operating Picture into the Apache cockpit. The same work passed Apache sensor data to the Army’s Next Generation Command and Control (NGC2) network.
Boeing said the aim is to give crews a shared operational picture, distribute sensor data and let crews control autonomous systems from the cockpit. It said the effort supports the Army’s goal of connecting sensors and shooters across its future command network.
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Company | Boeing |
| Platform | AH-64E Apache |
| Partner | Raft (software company) |
| Network | Army Next Generation Command and Control (NGC2) |
| Architecture | Version 6.5 open systems architecture |
| Integration time | A matter of months, per Boeing |
| Announced | October 20, 2026 |
Three Demonstrations, Three Interfaces
Boeing described three pieces of work that show the same point from different angles: the Apache can be connected to outside systems without rewriting its mission software.
| Demonstration | Setting | What Boeing says it showed |
|---|---|---|
| NGC2 data sharing | Joint effort with Raft | Common operating picture in the cockpit and Apache sensor data passed to NGC2 |
| Launched Effects | Hardware-in-the-loop lab test at Boeing’s Mesa laboratory | Integration through the Version 6.5 architecture using equipment representative of Army hardware; built on work with two industry partners the year before |
| IBCS-M | Right to Integrate hackathon at Fort Carson in May (Operation Jail Break) | Apache software integrated with the Integrated Battle Command System-Maneuver; existing interfaces provided interoperability without modification |
Boeing said the open architecture lets new capabilities be added without tablets or changes to the mission software, and that Version 6.5 also supports emerging counter-drone capabilities while keeping crew workload low. It plans more Army hackathons with a broader scope.
Why the Apache Fleet Is Being Networked
Boeing says about 1,300 Apaches operate with 19 nations. The AH-64E entered US Army service in 2013, and public references say the Army stated in April 2025 that it would stop procuring new AH-64s. That makes software and network upgrades the main route for adding capability to the existing fleet.
That reading is analysis rather than a Boeing statement. The Army has been building its next-generation command network in parallel. Military Times reported on October 14 that the Army selected nine companies for NGC2 software, so the Apache is one of many platforms that will have to plug into it.
Boeing also said it is exploring whether the same open-systems approach can support joint warfighter integration across other parts of its portfolio. “This strategic collaboration is the latest example of Boeing’s commitment to open systems,” said Scott Jobe of Boeing Phantom Works. TJ Jamison, director of business development for attack helicopter programmes, said Boeing plans to keep building on the success “with additional efforts in the works.”
Boeing Company Profile
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Headquarters | Arlington, Virginia |
| Founded | 1916, Seattle |
| Employees | About 182,000 (2025) |
| Revenue | About $89.5 billion (2025) |
| CEO | Kelly Ortberg |
| Segments | Commercial Airplanes, Defense Space and Security, Global Services |
| Known defence programmes | AH-64 Apache, F-47 (Next Generation Air Dominance), F/A-18E/F, KC-46 |
Apache and NGC2 FAQ
What did Boeing demonstrate?
An AH-64E exchanging data with the Army’s future command-and-control network, plus lab integration of a Launched Effects capability.
Who partnered with Boeing?
Raft, a software company, for the two-way data-sharing demonstration.
What is NGC2?
The Army’s Next Generation Command and Control network.
How many Apaches are in service?
Boeing says about 1,300 operate with 19 nations.
Is this a contract?
No. Boeing described demonstrations and laboratory work, not an award.
- Defence Industry Europe – “Boeing says Apache upgrades will improve battlefield data sharing and support integration of new autonomous capabilities” (October 20, 2026, citing Boeing): defence-industry.eu
- Military Times – Army selects nine companies for next-generation command-and-control software (October 14, 2026), as cited by Defense News
- Wikipedia – Boeing AH-64 Apache; Boeing (technical and company data)
