Longbow Unmanned Aerial Systems Tactical Common Data Link Assembly (UTA) and Arrowhead modernized target acquisition/night vision sensor debuted during the first flight of the U.S. Army’s AH-64 Apache Block III attack helicopter. These systems enhance the Warfighters’ ability to engage targets more effectively and at a safer distance. The Longbow Weapon System is produced by the Longbow Limited Liability Company (LBL), a joint venture of Lockheed Martin and Northrop Grumman, and is comprised of a Fire Control Radar (FCR), a fire-and-forget millimeter wave-guided HELLFIRE missile and the all-digital M299 Launcher.

The Longbow UTA is a derivative system of the combat-proven Longbow FCR. Its visual signature and aerodynamics are identical to the FCR. The Longbow UTA is a two-way, high-bandwidth data link for Apache aircrews. UTA Apache aircrews can exercise up to Level 4 control of unmanned aerial systems (UAS) at long ranges and can receive high-quality UAS imagery on their multi-purpose displays.

The Lockheed Martin Modernized Target Acquisition Designation Sight/Pilot Night Vision Sensor (M-TADS/PNVS) system, known as Arrowhead, features both day and night sensor assemblies.The new, advanced targeting FLIR sensor uses SADA 1 technology and has three fields of view, a multi-target tracker, laser spot tracking and internal boresight. A charge-coupled device camera improves day TV viewing, and the TADS electronic display and control unit (TEDAC) cockpit panel improves target resolution, situational awareness and survivable space for the aircrew.