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☞ 항공 무기/- 헬리콥터

[미국] Part 2. AH-64 Apache



AH-64 Apache


In case of Apache there are two sensors in place on two different Turrets . These are
TADS -Target Acquisition and Designation System (TADS)
PNVS- Pilot Night Vision System (PNVS)
The PNVS is mounted above the nose structure of the aircraft, while the larger TADS turret occupies the underside of the nose section

For PNVS - use Wikipedia to learn how it works , in short
The (PNVS) consists of a Forward Looking Infrared (FLIR) device that turns night into day for the pilot, a critical function for an aircraft which often must travel low and fast in order to survive .

TADS - comprises of a FLIR device, two types of optical cameras, and a Laser Range-finder/Designator (LRF/D) . Entire assembly is divided into night (starboard) and day (port) halves, each capable of independent elevation .



DAYLIGHT SYSTEM( see above image ) - On the port side are three sensors for the detection and tracking of targets when there is daylight. They are mounted in a vertical column and consist of the Direct View Optics (DVO) sensor at the top, a TV optical sensor (DTV) below, and a laser range-finder/designator at the bottom. The DVO is an optical telescope with two magnifications: x4 magnification at 18 deg. FoV, or x16 magnification at 4 deg. FoV.

The TV optical sensor offers up to x127 magnification with a corresponding FoV of 0.45 degrees.
The laser designator is a neodymium laser with an effective range of 20 km (12 miles) aser fulfills two specific functions. First, the laser designates targets for either its own missiles, or the missiles of another helicopter. Rather than operate in a continuous beam, the laser pulses in a pre-designated pattern. This "codes" that particular laser, distinguishing it from others. Missiles intended for that target are instructed to seek out that unique code, thus ensuring that they are guided to the correct target. Second, the laser acts as a range-finder, measuring the precise distance between aircraft and target.

NIGHT SYSTEM - see above image
The starboard side of the TADS system houses the FLIR sensor which provides slightly better imagery than the PNVS. This FLIR sensor provides variable field of views ranging between 50, 10, 3.1, and 1.6 degrees FoV. The FLIR of the TADS unit can be switched between "white hot" and "black hot" in order to provide better contrast against the surrounding terrain for increased target discrimination. An adjustable gain selection also aids in this target enhancement.

The imagry from the TADS unit can either be displayed on the co-pilot/gunner's own HMS/HUD unit, on one of the MFDs, or via the primary display for the gunner, the Optical Relay Tube (ORT). In addition, a video-recorder can collect information from all of the TADS sensors. As a result, the Helicoptor needs to unmask for only a short time to collect sensory input, which can be analysed in greater detail by the crew once the aircraft drops down behind cover once again. The recorder can also be used to record the aftermath of an attack for analysis upon return to base.

This is how Optronics Pod work .


▼ Apache Helicopter Helmet & Display System GPN








1. Stabilator
2. Vertical stabilizer  
3. Air data sensor  
4. TADS & PNVS turrets  
5. Canopy jettison handle  
6. Forward avionics bay  
7. Mooring lug  
8. Fire extinguisher  
9. Intercom  
10.Main transmission oil level sight gage
11. Aft equipment bay ("catwalk")
12. Hydraulic ground service panel
13. Hydraulic oil level sight gage  
14. Infrared countermeasure device
15. Chaff module  
16. Utility light / ground power receptacle
17. Aft storage bay  
18. Survival equipment storage bay
19. Main landing gear  
20. Pilot door  
21. Co-pilot door  
22. Searchlight  
23. Ammunition bay  
24. Tail landing gear  
25. Aft avionics bay  
26. APU oil level sight gage














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