Article Posted on : - Jan 07, 2011

VNsight sensor integrated into the AH-64D Apache Modernized Pilot Night Vision Sensor (M-PNVS). VNsight imagery is blended with the M-PNVS forward looking infrared imagery so pilots can see cultural and military lighting (lasers, markers, beacons, tracer rounds, etc.) accurately registered with the thermal image over the full 30 by 52 degree field of view of the sensor. Photo: Lockheed Martin.

ORLANDO, FLORIDA (BNS): The US Army has awarded Lockheed Martin a $15 million worth contract for production of a low-light-level TV capability, called VNsight, for the Apache’s combat-proven Modernized Target Acquisition Designation Sight/Pilot Night Vision Sensor (M-TADS/PNVS), also known as Arrowhead.

The new VNsight visible/near infrared sensor is integrated into the Modernized PNVS, providing the Warfighter with significant tactical advantages, particularly in low-light-level conditions, according to a news release by Lockheed Martin.

The VNsight Lot 1 production contract for 65 sensors and spares will equip two Apache battalions. It will also provide an initial quantity of cameras and spares to outfit a Foreign Military Sales customer. The M-TADS/PNVS systems will be upgraded as a field retrofit. Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control will produce the VNsight lens and serve as the system integrator, while Lockheed Martin Mission Systems and Sensors in Akron, OH, will provide the sensor’s camera, the release said.

“The VNsight camera upgrade represents a mission enhancing capability improvement for the Lockheed Martin produced Apache sensor. It provides an increase in pilot situational awareness, flight safety and mission flexibility,” said Monty Watson, VNsight program manager at Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control.

By blending VNsight imagery with the M-PNVS forward looking infrared (FLIR) imagery, pilots can see cultural and military lighting (lasers, markers, beacons, tracer rounds, etc.) accurately registered within the thermal image over the full 30-by-40 degree field of view of the sensor. This ensures safer flying conditions and enhanced mission capability by improving situational awareness in low-light-level conditions and situations where existing light sources cannot be imaged by the FLIR.

The capability to image light sources in-band with the VNsight sensor allows aviators to see some laser pointers, improving coordination with ground units. It also allows the aircrew to see their own laser spot while designating targets for laser-guided munitions engagements, providing an extra level of certainty that the correct target and aim-point are designated. Enhanced air-to-ground situational awareness reduces the potential for fratricide.