Lockheed Martin has received a contract to upgrade the Modernized Target Acquisition Designation Sight/Pilot Night Vision Sensor, or M-TADS, for Japan's fleet of AH-64 Apache helicopters.

The contract includes performance based logistics support, with the plan to deliver 14 of the systems to the Japanese Self Defense Forces through 2020.

The improved system is expected to improve accuracy and targeting ranges. Support for the system will fall under a separate contract over a three-year period.

"Lockheed Martin's M-DSA laser designator significantly enhances the capabilities of Japan's Apache fleet," Paul Lemmo, vice president at Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control, said in a press release. "Modernizing the M-TADS system delivers improved weapon effectiveness to JGSDF aircrews and streamlined sustainment support to maintainers."

The M-TADS is the main targeting system for the AH-64 Apache. It also includes the night vision system for the pilot of the attack helicopter. More than 1250 of the systems have been delivered to the US Army.

The AH-64 Apache is the primary attack helicopter for the U.S. Army. It has a 30mm cannon on a rotating turret, which the pilot can direct by merely rotating his helmet using the M-TADS system. It can also carry everything from Hellfire missiles and unguided rockets to Stinger air-to-air missiles and has been widely exported to allied countries across the world.

Tweet

Second Boeing T-X trainer aircraft has successful test flight
Washington (UPI) Apr 25, 2017
The test flight of Boeing's second T-X trainer aircraft, in a partnership with Saab, took place on April 24th. The plane is marketed as a platform for advanced pilot training, with the US Air Force considered its primary customer. "The jet handled exactly like the first aircraft and the simulator, meeting all expectations," Boeing Test Pilot for Air Force Programs Matt Giese said in a p ... read more

Related Links
Aerospace News at SpaceMart.com

Thanks for being here; We need your help. The SpaceDaily news network continues to grow but revenues have never been harder to maintain. With the rise of Ad Blockers, and Facebook - our traditional revenue sources via quality network advertising continues to decline. And unlike so many other news sites, we don't have a paywall - with those annoying usernames and passwords. Our news coverage takes time and effort to publish 365 days a year. If you find our news sites informative and useful then please consider becoming a regular supporter or for now make a one off contribution.
SpaceDaily Contributor $5 Billed Once credit card or paypal		SpaceDaily Monthly Supporter $5 Billed Monthly paypal only