13:12 GMT, October 29, 2009 defpro.com | In a letter to the Dutch Government, State Secretary of Defence Jack de Vries announced that the Dutch Ministry of Defence plans a short-term modernisation programme for its AH-64D Apache attack helicopters.

According to the Ministry of Defence, the Dutch Apaches of the Block I configuration have limitated capailities with respect to current standards. For instance, it is not possible to receive or transmit image or video data. In a Block II configuration the Apache could provide this capability.

Another improvement would be a digital map for the cockpit display that would combine map data with tactical information on heading and positions of targets and friedly units. The modernisation will allow the Apaches to provide a better situational awareness in less time.

The planned upgrade is valued at €116 million. By joining a short-term order of the United States, the Netherlands would benefit from a favourable unit price. The first upgrade demonstrator is scheduled to be available in 2010. The modernisation of the entire Apache fleet will follow in the period of 2013 to 2015.

(This is an unofficial translation of a press release of the Dutch Ministry of Defence by defpro.com/nvk)