The Modernized Target Acquisition Sight/Pilot Night Vision Sensor, or M-TADS, pictured on the front of an U.S. Army Apache helicopter, is the main targeting system for the Apache. Lockheed Martin announced Thursday it has signed a contract with Japan to upgrade the M-TADS systems in the country's fleet of AH-64 Apache helicopters. Photo courtesy of Lockheed Martin

April 27 (UPI) -- Lockheed Martin has received a contract to upgrade the Modernized Target Acquisition Designation Sight/Pilot Night Vision Sensor, or M-TADS, for Japan's fleet of AH-64 Apache helicopters.

The contract includes performance based logistics support, with the plan to deliver 14 of the systems to the Japanese Self Defense Forces through 2020.


The improved system is expected to improve accuracy and targeting ranges. Support for the system will fall under a separate contract over a three-year period.

"Lockheed Martin's M-DSA laser designator significantly enhances the capabilities of Japan's Apache fleet," Paul Lemmo, vice president at Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control, said in a press release. "Modernizing the M-TADS system delivers improved weapon effectiveness to JGSDF aircrews and streamlined sustainment support to maintainers."

The M-TADS is the main targeting system for the AH-64 Apache. It also includes the night vision system for the pilot of the attack helicopter. More than 1250 of the systems have been delivered to the US Army.

The AH-64 Apache is the primary attack helicopter for the U.S. Army. It has a 30mm cannon on a rotating turret, which the pilot can direct by merely rotating his helmet using the M-TADS system. It can also carry everything from Hellfire missiles and unguided rockets to Stinger air-to-air missiles and has been widely exported to allied countries across the world.