First unit fields Apache-Shadow combo

Manned-unmanned operations using helicopters linked with unmanned aircraft systems, or UAS, have been used by the Army for a number of years.

However, no single unit has ever actually been assigned to both assets until now, said Lt. Col. Tory Burgess, product manager for Shadow Tactical UAS.

Burgess and others spoke during a media roundtable from Redstone Arsenal, Alabama, March 19.

The 1/501st Aviation Battalion with the 1st Armored Division's Combat Aviation Brigade on Fort Bliss, Texas, became that first unit, Burgess said, noting that on March 16, the battalion had a reflagging ceremony, becoming the 3rd Squadron, 6th Cavalry Regiment.

It was not just a name change, though. The new unit converted to a heavy attack reconnaissance squadron, equipped with AH-64 Apache Longbow helicopters and the new tactical common data link-equipped RQ-7Bv2 Shadows.

 By David Vergun
 http://www.army.mil/article/144962/First_unit_fields_Apache_Shadow_combo/