Afghan Debut For Apache Ground Fire System

26/10/2012 by Paul Fiddian - Armed Forces International's Lead Reporter

New military technology has made its operational debut in Afghanistan.

Integrated into US Army AH-64D Block II Apaches, the GFAS (Ground Fire Acquisition System) was first deployed there two months ago but only now have details of this deployment emerged.

There are a total of 24 AH-64Ds now equipped with GFAS - a system intended to detect and aim the Apaches' sensors at ground-based weapons fire sources. GFAS consists of two small sensor pods, which home in on muzzle flashes. Working in tandem with the AH-64D's own sensors, the GFAS' infrared camera units give the helicopters' pilots crucial mission data, telling them exactly where the ground-based threats are and the distance that lies between them.

Ground Fire Acquisition System

The Ground Fire Acquisition System is effective in all light conditions and works across a 120 degree field of view. In Afghanistan, it's being fielded by the 1-101st Aviation Regiment's 24 AH-64D Apaches, the first to get the new system. These are mid-series Block II Apaches with upgraded communications systems that first entered US Army service in 2003.

Meantime, the latest Apache model is now steadily entering US Army service, too, after the first example was delivered in late 2011.

Apache GFAS Deployment

The Apache GFAS deployment news was announced at the Association of the United States Army's Annual Meeting and Exposition, held in Washington between 22-24 October 2012. "This is a game-changing piece of technology", explained US Army Executive Office for Aviation Apache project manager Colonel Jeff Hager. "It gives our crews the ability to see where the small arms fire is coming from, and giving that information to the crew on the displays."

First built by Hughes, the twin-engined, two-seat Apache attack helicopter emerged as a competitor in the US Army's 1970s AAH (Advanced Attack Helicopter) programme. Early series AH-64As and later AH-64Ds equip many air arms besides the US Army. These include the Egyptian Air Force, the Hellenic (Greek) Army, the Israeli Air Force, the Royal Netherlands Air Force, the United Arab Emirates Army and the Army Air Corps.

The US Army's ultimate Block III Apache fleet will total no less than 690 airframes, with upgraded engines, a strengthened rotor system and more lifting power. Formerly known as the AH-64D Block III Apache, this newest model has recently been redesignated as the AH-64E.