Apache Helicopters Light Up Hungarian Skies in Saber Guardian 2025 Live-Fire Drill

American AH-64 Apache helicopters drew constant attention as they carried out combat missions with live ammunition at the zero-point firing range (designated starting point for live ammunition exercises) and training ground during the Saber Guardian 2025 multinational exercise, Honvédelem reported. Saber Guardian is part of a broader US-led series of NATO military exercises called Defender 25, aimed at improving coordination and readiness among allied forces. 

Organized by the Defense Cooperation Office of the US Embassy in Budapest and the Hungarian Armed Forces, military bloggers and photographers were able to follow closely as twelve AH-64E helicopters took turns attacking ten targets on the firing range with missiles and 30 mm machine guns. During the training flights and precision maneuvers, the participating soldiers were aware of the attention, as 10-15 cameras in the observation tower captured every moment.

It is important to show that we are here and that we can be counted on if necessary,”

said Warrant Officer Kathryn Johnston, an Apache pilot with the US Army’s 12th Combat Aviation Brigade, who does not find the presence of the press during the exercise disturbing. In fact, she often acknowledged the observers with waves and salutes, maintaining a friendly rapport despite the intensity of the exercise.

As part of the Defender 25 exercise series organized by the United States Army Europe and Africa, Saber Guardian 2025 is taking place in Hungary from June 6 to 24, with the participation of 1,400 American, 800 Hungarian, and 450 Spanish soldiers.

Via honvédelem.hu; Featured photo: Honvédelem