Apache Fire Control: Enhancing Precision and Survivability with TADS/PNVS Modernization
Building on over 35 years of sensor lineage and upgrades, the Target Acquisition Designation Sensor/Pilot Night Vision Sensor (TADS/PNVS) is the combat-proven, advanced electro-optical fire control system used by AH-64D/E Apache helicopter pilots across the globe for long-range precision engagement and pilotage capabilities in day, night and adverse-weather missions.
“The TADS/PNVS provides Apache aircrews with situational awareness and helps to save lives in challenging missions,” said Tom Eldredge, Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control Director of Apache Fire Control. “This sensor system is a proven capability, and Lockheed Martin is proud to help our customers for whatever mission or threat they face.”
Since first fielded, Lockheed Martin’s TADS/PNVS has been a game-changer for Apache pilots, reducing pilot workload and dramatically improving situational awareness, survivability and lethality. More than 1,240 systems have been delivered to the U.S. Army and 19 international customers to date, and the global demand has not waivered.
Lockheed Martin’s Apache Fire Control products include electro-optical sensors and radar technologies for the AH-64D Apache helicopter.
Through continued technological advancements to the TADS/PNVS system, Lockheed Martin remains committed to delivering innovative, affordable sensor system capabilities to our customers around the world.
These advancements are not only modernizing the capabilities of the sensor system, but they are mitigating obsolescence and improving reliability and maintainability through new designs. The Generation 3 Day Sensor Assembly (Gen 3 DSA), Generation 2 Turret (G2T) and Common Sensor Electronic Unit (CSEU) are all part of the modernization effort that the Apache Fire Control team is leading.
Lockheed Martin’s products provide aircrews with enhanced situational awareness and greater performance and survivability.
The Gen 3 DSA provides longer range targeting, increased lethality, reduced pilot workload and maintainer burden. While the CSEU replaces multiple existing avionic units, mitigating ongoing obsolescence, reducing space and weight, while offering increased processing and cost savings over the life span of the unit. New upgrades provide critical structural interface for both the Targeting and Pilotage sensors to function as designed on the nose of the Apache. It also resolves Legacy TADS turret obsolescence while increasing reliability and maintainability through a new modular design.
Lockheed Martin is a leading provider of advanced security technologies, and the Apache Fire Control sensors are at the forefront of modernization. With its advanced sensors, real-time intelligence and reliability and maintainability, the Apache provides unparalleled reconnaissance, targeting and imagery capabilities.
