Upgrade and Support for M-TADS/PNVS

Lockheed Martin announced on 26 April it has received contracts to upgrade the Modernised Target Acquisition Designation Sight/Pilot Night Vision Sensor (M‑TADS/PNVS) system for Japan’s fleet of Boeing‘s AH-64DJP APACHE attack helicopters and provide Performance Based Logistics (PBL) support. M-TADS/PNVS, of which over 1,350 have been delivered to US Army and international customers (including over a dozen to Japan), is known as the “eyes of the Apache” and provides pilots with long-range, precision engagement and pilotage capabilities for safe flight during day, night and adverse weather missions.

The company will deliver 14 laser designation kits through 2020 to upgrade Japan Ground Self Defense Force (JGSDF) M-TADS systems. The Modernised Day Sensor Assembly (M-DSA) upgrade improves laser reliability and the APACHE’s ability to designate targets and establish accurate target range. The company’s will provide PBL support under a separate three-year contract and will also upgrade JGSDF test equipment and provide in-country training. Japan is the first international APACHE customer to receive a M-DSA field upgrade to its M-TADS/PNVS system.

“Lockheed Martin’s M-DSA laser designator significantly enhances the capabilities of Japan’s APACHE fleet,” Paul Lemmo, Vice President of Fire Control/SOF CLSS at Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control, commented. “Modernising the M-TADS system delivers improved weapon effectiveness to JGSDF aircrews and streamlined sustainment support to maintainers.”