Apache AH Mk I to Get Upgraded Targeting and Navigation System

Released on Wednesday, May 25, 2005

The United Kingdom Ministry of Defense (UK MoD) has awarded AgustaWestland a £300 million ($576 million) contract for modernization of the Apache AH Mk I sighting and targeting system and provide aircraft support for the next four years.

AgustaWestland will integrate the M-TADS/PNVS or Arrowhead frontal sensor provided by Lockheed-Martin under a $212 million contract into the frontal section of the UK Apache helicopters. This sensor will provide British pilots with enhanced situational awareness, combat effectiveness and better night vision capabilities. Moreover, M-TADS/PNVS offers lower operational life costs compared with its predecessor, the TADS/PNVS. The contract fro the M-TADS/PNVS is worth £192 million ($368 million).

Software development and design activities are expected to be initiated sooner with flight trials in the UK anticipated by 2007. The first Apache AH modified with M-TADS/PNVS sensor package will be delivered to the UK MoD in January 2009 along with other three helicopters and the retrofit to the entire Apache fleet is planned to be completed by the end of 2010.

In addition, the UK Ministry of Defense declared the First Apache AH Mk I helicopter fully operational after successful completion of exercise Eagles Strike on 24th May 2005. The 9th Regiment Army Air Corps belongs to the 16 Air Assault Brigade.