US Department of Defense invests in AH-64 Apache modernization programs.

On December 13, the U.S. Department of Defense revealed that Lockheed Martin Corp., headquartered in Orlando, Florida, had been granted a $74,045,265 contract modification (Contract W58RGZ-21-C-0016) as part of the AH-64 Apache Modernized Target Acquisition Designation Sight/Pilot Night Vision Sensor Performance Based Logistics program. The scope of this contract modification encompasses various logistical enhancements for the AH-64 Apache platform.

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AH-64 Apache Modernized Target Acquisition Designation Sight/Pilot Night Vision Sensor (Picture source: Lockheed Martin)

The designated work location for this project is in Orlando, Florida, with an anticipated project completion date set for December 31, 2024. The Department of Defense allocated fiscal year 2024 Army working capital funds amounting to $74,045,265 at the time of contract award. The Army Contracting Command, based at Redstone Arsenal, Alabama, is the overseeing contracting entity for this endeavor.

The AH-64 Apache Modernized Target Acquisition Designation Sight/Pilot Night Vision Sensor Performance Based Logistics program, often referred to as the M-TADS/PNVS PBL program, is a crucial initiative within the U.S. Department of Defense's efforts to maintain and enhance the effectiveness of the AH-64 Apache helicopter fleet. This program focuses on the sustainment and logistics support for the Target Acquisition Designation Sight (TADS) and Pilot Night Vision Sensor (PNVS) systems on the AH-64 Apache helicopters. These systems are vital for the Apache's ability to operate effectively in various mission scenarios, including day and night operations, target acquisition, and designation for precision-guided munitions.

The use of a Performance Based Logistics (PBL) approach in this program signifies an emphasis on performance outcomes and cost-effectiveness. Instead of traditional, transactional contracts, PBL contracts typically involve a long-term partnership between the government and the contractor. The contractor is responsible for ensuring the availability and reliability of the systems, aligning their incentives with the military's operational needs. This approach aims to reduce costs, increase system availability, and improve overall sustainment.

Modernized Target Acquisition Designation Sight/Pilot Night Vision Sensor (Picture source: Lockheed Martin)

Apache AH-64D/E Model Fire Control Radar

In addition to this announcement, the U.S. Department of Defense also disclosed another contract modification on the same date. Longbow LLC, also situated in Orlando, Florida, secured a $10,773,790 contract modification (Contract W58RGZ-22-C-0053) pertaining to the Apache AH-64D/E Model Fire Control Radar. The specific work locations and funding allocation for this contract will be determined on a per-order basis, with an estimated completion date mirroring that of the Lockheed Martin contract, set for December 31, 2024. The Army Contracting Command, located at Redstone Arsenal, Alabama, is the contracting activity overseeing this project as well.

JGSDF AH-64D（74506） APG-78 Longbow millimeter-wave fire-control radar (Picture source: Wikipedia)