Lockheed Martin is developing greater capability for Apache pilots through Apache sensor upgrades such as the Modernized Day Sensor Assembly (M-DSA), VNsight visible/near infrared sensor, and network-centric VUIT video link.  

Fielded since 2005, Lockheed Martin’s highly effective Modernized Target Acquisition Designation Sight/Pilot Night Vision Sensor (M-TADS/PNVS) provides Apache pilots with advanced, long-range, electro-optical precision engagement and pilotage capabilities for day, night and adverse weather missions.  M-TADS/PNVS employs forward-looking infrared (FLIR) sensors that provide enhanced image resolution to Apache pilots for precision targeting at significant standoff range. 

The M-DSA replaces M-TADS/PNVS’ existing Day Sensor Assembly to  enhance performance, resolve obsolescence issues and support improvements in sustainability and maintainability, enabling two-level maintenance compatible with M-TADS/PNVS Performance Based Logistics.  M-DSA also increases reliability by enhancing M-TADS/PNVS mean time between failure rates. 

The VNsight visible/near infrared sensor is integrated into the Modernized PNVS to provide Apache pilots significant tactical advantages and ensure safer flying conditions.  Blending VNsight imagery with M-PNVS FLIR imagery allows pilots to see cultural and military lighting (lasers, markers, beacons, tracer rounds, etc.) in low-light-level conditions and situations where existing light sources cannot be imaged by the FLIR. 

VUIT provides Apache pilots a common picture of the battlefield that is essential to successful combat operations.  VUIT can be integrated into the LONGBOW Fire Control Radar (FCR), which provides Apache aircrews with target detection, location, classification and prioritization, as well as automatic and rapid multi-target engagement. VUIT is the network-centric link that enables real-time sharing of full-motion video from multiple aerial surveillance and reconnaissance resources to joint forces in the air and on the ground.  By reducing the sensor-to-shooter timeline, VUIT enables soldiers to identify threats sooner and engage targets faster.

M-DSA, VNsight and VUIT are capability improvements that ensure the Apache remains the premier attack helicopter well into the future.