Lockheed Martin to upgrade Qatari Air Force's AH-64 Apache attack helicopters.

Fielded in 2005, M-TADS/PNVS provides Apache pilots with long-range, precision engagement and pilotage capabilities for safe flight during day, night and adverse weather missions. Lockheed Martin has delivered more than 1,250 M-TADS/PNVS systems and spares to the U.S. Army and international customers.

The Qatar sale is an option under the U.S. Army’s Lot 9 contract, awarded to Lockheed Martin in May. The option includes production of M-TADS/PNVS targeting and pilotage systems and spares for the Qatar Emiri Air Force’s new fleet of AH-64E Apache attack helicopters. It extends production in Orlando and Ocala, Florida, through 2017.

“The Qatar Emiri Air Force will be one of the first international customers to receive M-TADS/PNVS systems equipped with the new Modernized Laser Range Finder Designator,” said Mike Taylor, Apache international programs director at Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control. “The new Laser Range Finder Designator is more than two times more reliable, improves targeting performance and can be repaired or replaced on the flight line, which significantly reduces operation and support costs.”