Budget Account
1506N - Aircraft Procurement, Navy
Budget Activity
05 - Modification of aircraft
Description
The H-1 Series program focuses on modifications to the UH-1Y and AH-1Z aircraft, aiming to enhance their capabilities in line with the Marine Corps' priorities. The primary objectives include improving digital interoperability, survivability, and lethality while addressing obsolescence and reliability issues. These modifications are intended to increase aircraft availability, reduce operating costs, and maintain operational capability. Key improvements involve software upgrades and integration of test assets to support engineering modifications.
The program includes several Operational Safety and Improvement Programs (OSIPs) targeting specific areas. One OSIP focuses on avionics enhancements such as Digital Interoperability (DI) and Link-16 integration, which facilitate command and control and improve battlefield information sharing. Another OSIP addresses sensors and weapons systems, including the integration of the APR-39D(V)2 system to enhance survivability against threats. This also involves procuring M4 Gun Mounts for increased operational flexibility.
An additional OSIP is dedicated to air vehicle improvements aimed at enhancing safety, reliability, and readiness. This includes upgrades to the swashplate, environmental control systems, structural components, and electrical power systems. The goal is to reduce maintenance requirements, extend component life spans, and improve overall aircraft performance. Additionally, this supports the procurement of installation kits for various system improvements.
The H-1 Series program leverages common architectures and existing technologies to minimize development costs while ensuring timely fielding of enhancements. The program's efforts are aligned with sustaining warfighter capability in support of global operations by maintaining a more interoperable and survivable fleet of H-1 aircraft.