Kiowa Warrior

Abstract

The OH-58D Kiowa Warrior (KW) is a two-seat, single-engine, observation, scout/attack helicopter with four main rotor blades. It utilizes a thermal-imaging system and a laser rangefinder/designator in a Mast Mounted Sight (MMS) situated above the main rotor system. The aircraft is equipped with a variety of weapon systems including: HELLFIRE, 2.75-inch rockets, and a .50-caliber machine gun. The aircraft operates autonomously at standoff ranges providing armed reconnaissance, command and control, and target acquisition/designation for Apache helicopters and other airborne weapons platforms in day, night, and adverse-weather conditions. Sensor imagery from compatible Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) and manned aircraft can be received and relayed to other aircraft or ground stations. The Active Army and the National Guard fly Kiowa Warriors. The Army and OSD have coordinated a funding position removing RDTE funding from the Kiowa Warrior (538) in FY15 and beyond. ASH PM planned FY14 requirements within the RDTE funds received of $25.999M. The FY14 funding incorporates required design improvements to the Single Channel FADEC Upgrade Electronic Control Unit (SCFU ECU) and related products to improve safety and reliability of the OH-58D engine fuel control and component qualifiaction of the Dual Channel FADEC. The funding also provides for the support of termination efforts of the OH-58F Kiowa Warrior Cockpit and Sensor Upgrade Program (CASUP).

Document Details

• Document Type: Project
• Publication Date: Oct 01, 2016
• Source ID: 538_0604220A_5_2040_PB_2016

Tags

Readers

• Aerospace Engineering
• Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) Autonomous Capabilities and Mission Reconnaissance.

Technology Areas

• Autonomy
• Directed Energy
• Fully Networked C3
• Microelectronics
• Microelectronics - Microelectromechanical Systems