Budget Account
2040A - Research, Development, Test and Evaluation, Army
Budget Activity
7 - Operational system development
Description
Apache Future Development is a part of the Army's Research, Development, Test & Evaluation (RDT&E) budget activity. The specific goal of this program is to prioritize, inform, influence, mature, track, status, and package technologies and material solutions to address known capability gaps associated with current and emerging threats during real-world combat missions. The program aims to transition these solutions to Apache development for integration and implementation into the AH-64E fleet to enhance combat capability. One of the key objectives of this program is the development of an Improved Tail Rotor Drive System (ITRDS) for the AH-64 platform to increase performance and safety while reducing the logistics footprint. Additionally, the program includes funding for Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) projects in accordance with Title 15 USC §638.
The Apache Future Development program under PE 0607145A focuses on enhancing the combat capability of the AH-64E fleet by addressing known capability gaps identified during real-world combat missions. Specifically, it aims to develop and integrate technologies and material solutions into the AH-64E fleet to increase its combat capability. One of the key objectives of this program is to develop an Improved Tail Rotor Drive System (ITRDS) for the AH-64 platform, which includes activities such as Airworthiness Qualification Specification (AQS) development, trade study analysis, design review level of effort (LOE), and component drawing development. Furthermore, the program includes funding for Strap Down Pilotage prototype development and evaluation to explore options for a next-generation pilotage system. These efforts are part of a broader mission to ensure that the AH-64E fleet maintains relevance and dominance throughout its expected service life through continuous modernization and enhancement initiatives.