US Army extends Apache sensors
Lockheed Martin has been awarded a Lot 4 follow-on contract by the US Army to continue Modernized Day Sensor Assembly (M-DSA) production for the AH-64E Apache helicopter, the company announced on 12 August.
M-DSA is an upgrade to the Modernized Target Acquisition Designation Sight/Pilot Night Vision Sensor (M-TADS/PNVS) targeting and pilotage system. The contract for Lot 4 is valued at $21.7 million.
The first phase of upgrades includes production of Modernized Laser Rangefinder Designator (M-LRFD) kits, which is the main targeting aid for the Apache. It enables pilots to designate targets and set up a target range for accurate weapon engagement.
The company is on contract to manufacture and supply 786 M-LRFD kits for international customers and the army. To date, the army has received a delivery of over 200 kits.
Lockheed Martin is also ready for the production of M-DSA Phase 2 upgrades that will enable Apache pilots to see high-resolution, near-infrared and colour imagery on cockpit displays. The improvements facilitate safe flight during training exercises and in urban environments, and enhanced coordination with ground troops.
Matt Hoffman, M-TADS/PNVS director, Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control, said: ‘We are currently fielding laser kits as part of the M-DSA Phase 1 upgrade and are on track to equip approximately seven Apache battalions a year.’
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