R&D Success Stories / AH-64 Apache ARC-231 SATCOM Installation Program

ARC-231 SATCOM Installation

The AH-64 Program Management Office has an operational requirement to install a stand alone SATCOM system using an AN/ARC-231 onto the AH-64D helicopter. The AN/ARC-231 SATCOM will provide the AH-64D helicopter with a high power wideband/narrowband SATCOM voice capability. The AN/ARC-231 System must operate even in the event of a catastrophic failure of the 1553 Data Bus system.

The contractor shall design and install the Group A-kit for installing and integrating the equipment listed in paragraph 2.5.1 into the AH-64D. Group-A design shall include new wiring for power and control. The Control Panel shall be installed at the appropriate location proposed by the contractor and approved by the Government. The contractor shall accomplish the engineering and design required for integration of the RT, Control Panel and power amplifier. The contractor shall design the installation of the ARC-231 system components using the least intrusive method possible while allowing accessibility for maintenance personnel to remove and replace units.

Milestones:

• Prototype installed and initial testing completed
• Re-design of antenna installation completed
• VAL/VER kits completed
• Turn key operation starting with design of the installation kit, prototype testing, Validation and Verification efforts and initial production of 106 kits for installation on Apache aircraft deploying to OEF or OIF