Lockheed Martin Wins $502 Million Contract to Support U.S. Army AH-64 Apache Helicopters
Lockheed Martin Secures Major AH-64 Apache Support Contract:
Lockheed Martin Secures Post-Production Contract for U.S. Army AH-64 Apache Fleet Washington, D.C., December 18, 2008 – Lockheed Martin (NYSE: LMT) has received a $502 million contract from the U.S. Army to provide post-production support for the nation’s AH-64 Apache attack helicopter fleet.
The award sustains the ongoing readiness of one of the most effective combat helicopters in the world by encompassing maintenance, engineering, logistics, technical assistance, and system improvements during the aircraft's operational life.
The AH-64 Apache continues to be an integral part of the U.S. Army’s aviation portfolio, providing capabilities that include close air support, armed reconnaissance, precision strike, and anti-armor warfare. Boeing produces the Apache helicopter, with Lockheed Martin providing and sustaining critical mission systems such as targeting, fire control, and electronic sensors that maximize the platform’s lethal performance.
How Post-Production Support Keeps the Apache Mission-Ready:
The post-production care that Lockheed Martin will support under the agreement is critical to sustaining Apache aircraft availability post-production by delivering engineering support, management of spares, software, technical assistance, and lifecycle sustainment in support of an armed helicopter program readiness level that can satisfy mission needs, both current and future. Ensuring a readily deployable
Apache is even more critical as the military helicopters serve in global operating conditions across various locations, to upgrade components, update software, and preserve AH-64s that provide enhanced reliability, capability, and safety for a prolonged service life.
Advanced Systems Require Continuous Maintenance:
Because the AH-64 Apache is outfitted with modern avionic systems, high-technology sensors, and precision-guided weaponry, its hardware and software need to be maintained and modernized throughout its active life cycle.
The contract’s lifecycle support capabilities continue to allow Army aviators the benefits of the latest software upgrades, diagnostics, and mission readiness while keeping operational downtime minimal. A part of a military aviation program, lifecycle support agreements like these allow aircraft to be kept in ready service for decades after initial manufacture.
Through engineering support, logistics, and maintenance assistance, Lockheed Martin helps keep the U.S. Army and international Apache fleet fully ready.
Why Aircraft Sustainment Matters for Future Operations:
As global security challenges continue to evolve, maintaining high aircraft readiness has become as important as acquiring new platforms. Investments in sustainment programs help ensure existing fleets remain capable, reliable, and prepared for future missions, allowing military forces to maximize the effectiveness of proven aircraft like the AH-64 Apache.
Beyond routine maintenance, the contract supports the long-term modernization of the AH-64 Apache fleet by ensuring critical mission systems remain compatible with evolving battlefield technologies.
As the U.S. Army continues to integrate advanced sensors, digital communications, and network-centric warfare capabilities, ongoing engineering support and software enhancements will help keep the Apache effective in future combat environments.
Author: Kevin Macmellon
