Lockheed Martin to supply M-TADS/PNVS to South Korea
Lockheed Martin will supply Modernized Target Acquisition Designation Sight/Pilot Night Vision Sensor (M-TADS/PNVS) systems for South Korea’s AH-64E Apache helicopter fleet under a new contract announced on 12 August. The contract is valued at $223 million and runs through 2018.
Lockheed Martin will supply 36 M-TADS/PNVS systems as well as spares under the agreement. The contract will see the Republic of Korea become the 12th nation to equip its Apache helicopters with the M-TADS/PNVS, known as the ‘eyes of the Apache’.
The system provides pilots with long-range, precision engagement and pilotage capabilities for mission success and flight safety in day, night and adverse weather missions. Forward-looking infrared sensors provide enhanced image resolution that enables Apache aircrews to prosecute targets and provide situational awareness in support of ground troops outside detection ranges.
Lt. Col. Shawn Powell, US Army Product Manager for the Apache International Sales Program, Apache Attack Helicopters Project Office, said: ‘We are very proud and happy to further our relationship with the Republic of Korea by adding them to our growing list of US allies flying and operating this exceptionally capable aircraft. Multiple systems come together on this platform to make the AH-64E Apache the most advanced and powerful attack helicopter in the world. They made a great choice.’
Mike Taylor, director of Apache international and support programs at Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control, added: ‘M-TADS/PNVS will provide the Republic of Korea Army with unmatched capabilities and performance. Lockheed Martin looks forward to this partnership with the Republic of Korea Army to produce and field our modernised targeting and pilotage system for South Korea's formidable new AH-64E Apache attack helicopter fleet.’
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