AgustaWestland Delivers M-TADS Equipped Apache AH Mk.1s

AgustaWestland has handed over to the UK MoD the first two Apache AH Mk1s, equipped with a new sighting and targeting system. (AgustaWestland photo)During a ceremony held at AgustaWestland's Yeovil facility today, the first two Apache AH Mk.1s equipped with a new sighting and targeting system were handed over to the UK Ministry of Defence, following the achievement of Release to Service on 14th November 2008. The sighting and targeting system, known as M-TADS/PNVS (Modernised Target Acquisition Designation Sight/Pilot Night Vision Sensor) along with TEDAC (TADS Electronic Display and Control) will provide Apache AH Mk.1 crews with greater situational awareness and combat effectiveness. Additionally the new system will also deliver significant whole life cost savings over the service life of the aircraft. The M-TADS Contract has been an excellent example of industry (AgustaWestland, Lockheed Martin, Boeing and QinetiQ) and the Ministry of Defence teams working as partners to benefit the performance and flexibility of a project. Nick Whitney, Senior Vice President - UK Government Business, AgustaWestland said at the handover ceremony, "I am delighted to be handing over the first two M-TADS equipped Apaches ahead of schedule, as we know the Apache crews and the troops on the ground on overseas operations will welcome the capability improvements the M-TADS system delivers. He went on to say "This programme is one where industry and the Ministry of Defence have worked together as true partners to deliver a programme on budget while achieving such important milestones ahead of schedule - I would like to congratulate all those involved.