U.S. Army awards Lockheed Martin contract to upgrade Apache helicopter targeting and pilotage system

The U.S. Army awarded Bethesda, MD-based Lockheed Martin a $21.7 million Lot 4 follow-on contract to continue production of the Modernized Day Sensor Assembly (M-DSA) for the AH-64E Apache attack helicopter, the company announced August 12.

This first phase of upgrades to modernize the Apache’s Day Sensor Assembly includes producing Modernized Laser Rangefinder Designator (M-LRFD) kits.  M-LRFD is the principal targeting aid for the Apache, enabling pilots to designate targets and establish target range for accurate weapon engagement. M-DSA is an upgrade to the Apache’s targeting and pilotage system, or Modernized Target Acquisition Designation Sight/Pilot Night Vision Sensor (M-TADS/PNVS).

A total of $21.7 million was obligated to Lockheed Martin through this Lot 4 contract award; the total value is not-to-exceed $50.9 million. Lockheed Martin is on contract to produce and deliver 786 M-LRFD kits for the U.S. Army and international customers. More than 200 kits have been delivered to the U.S. Army to date.

“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,” said Matt Hoffman, M-TADS/PNVS director at Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control.

In addition, Lockheed Martin has already qualified M-DSA Phase 2 upgrades and is ready to transition into production. Phase 2 M-DSA upgrades allow Apache pilots to see high-resolution, near infrared and color imagery on cockpit displays. Phase 2 upgrades also include a new laser pointer marker and a multi-mode laser with eye-safe lasing capability. These improvements allow for better coordination with ground troops and safe flight in urban environments and during training exercises.

Source: Lockheed Martin