The U.S. State Department has approved the sale to the Netherlands of parts and services to support the upgrade of its 28 AH-64D Apache attack helicopters to the AH-64E configuration for an estimated cost of $1.191 billion, the Defense Security Cooperation Agency said in a press release.
The items and services requested by the government of the Netherlands include 17 AN/APG-78 Fire Control Radars, 28 AN/ASQ-170 Modernized Target Acquisition and Designation Sights/AN/AAR-11 Modernized Pilot Night Vision Sensors, 28 AN/APR-48B Modernized Radar Frequency Interferometers, 70 Embedded Global Positioning System/Inertial Navigation Systems, plus parts to upgrade 51 T700-GE-701C Engines to T700-GE-701D (42 engines to be installed, nine spares), the Tuesday, February 20 release said.
The radar and fire control systems enable the helicopter to detect targets while behind obstacles, and the AN/APG-78 can simultaneously track 128 targets and engage 16 at once. Integrated communications systems allow data sharing both with ground units and between helicopters, enabling one Apache to engage a target detected by another.
Other items and services requested that are not categorized as major defense equipment include helmets, simulators, generators, wheeled vehicles, spare and repair parts, support equipment, tools and test equipment, training and training equipment, as well as other U.S. Government and contractor support services.
“This proposed sale will support the foreign policy and national security objectives of the United States by improving the security of a NATO ally,” DSCA said, adding “It is vital to U.S. national interests to assist the Netherlands to develop and maintain a strong and ready self-defense capability.”
The principal contractors are Boeing and Lockheed Martin.
The Netherlands ordered its Apaches in 1995 and deliveries ended in 2002.