Saudi Request Would Double Apache Fleet
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On Sept 9/08 The US Defense Security Cooperation Agency announced [PDF] an official request from Saudi Arabia for 12 AH-64D Block II Apache Longbow Helicopters, and associated items. The request, which could result in $598 million worth of contracts, would be used by the kingdom:
“…for its national security, and protecting its borders and oil infrastructure. The aircraft will provide the Saudi military more advanced targeting and engagement capabilities. The proposed sale will provide for the defense of vital installations and will provide close air support for the Saudi military ground forces. This sale also will increase the Royal Saudi Air Force (RSAF) APACHE sustainability and interoperability with the U.S. Air Force, the Gulf Cooperation Council countries, and other coalition air forces.”
Saudi Arabia already has 12 AH-64A Apaches, in service with 2 Aviation Battalion at King Khalid Military City, in the country’s northeast near Kuwait. A $400 million August 2006 DSCA request would have upgraded those helicopters to AH-64D status, but DID has seen no follow-on contracts to that effect. This request involves new equipment, including:
- 12 AH-64D Block II Apache Longbow Helicopters
- 30 T700-GE-701D Engines
- 12 Modernized Targeting Acquisition and Designation Systems/Pilot Night Vision Sensors (TADS/PVNS chin turret)
- 4 AN/APG-78 Fire Control Radars, the optional radar mast that often distinguishes the AH-64D Longbow from earlier versions
- 4 AN/APR-48 Radar Frequency Interferometers
- 28 M299 HELLFIRE Longbow Missile Launchers, each of which holds 4 missiles
- 12 AN/ALQ-144Cv3 Infrared Jammers
- 12 AN/AVR-2B Laser Warning Sets
- 12 AN/APR-39Av4 Radar Signal Detecting Sets
- 12 AN/ALQ-136v5 Radar Jammers
- 12 AAR-57(V)3/5 Common Missile Warning Systems
- 36 Improved Countermeasures Dispensers
- Plus Integrated Helmet and Display Sight Systems, composite horizontal stabilators, repair and return services, transportation, depot maintenance, spare and repair parts, support equipment, publications and technical documentation, U.S. Government and contractor technical support, and other related elements of program support.
The prime contractors will be:
- Boeing Corporation of Mesa, AZ (AH-64 prime contractor & integrator)
- General Electric Company of Fairfield, CT (engines)
- Lockheed Martin Corporation of Palmdale, CA (Longbow launchers, radar)
Implementation of this proposed sale requires the assignment of a single Contractor Field Service representative (CFSR) to Saudi Arabia for 2 years for the airframe and electrical systems, and another CFSR for 2 years for the Fire Control Radar. This program will require U.S. government and contractor personnel participation in annual, one-week Program Management Reviews in Saudi Arabia.
