MISSION
Performs aerial reconnaissance and security in support of ground maneuver forces.
DESCRIPTION
The Kiowa Warrior is a single-engine, two-person, lightly armed reconnaissance helicopter with advanced avionics, navigation, communication, weapons, and cockpit integration systems. Its mast-mounted sight houses a thermal imaging system, low-light television, and a laser rangefinder/designator permitting target acquisition and engagement at standoff ranges and in adverse weather. Sensor imagery from compatible Unmanned Aerial Systems and manned aircraft can be received and relayed to other aircraft or ground stations. The navigation system can convey precise target locations to other aircraft or artillery via its advanced digital communications system.
The Cockpit and Sensor Upgrade Program (CASUP) was planned to address safety, obsolescence, and weight reduction, to keep the aircraft viable beyond FY25. The Kiowa Warrior Wartime Replacement Aircraft (WRA) program addressed attrition with delivery of new aircraft. However, funding constraints drove the Army to re-evaluate the strategy for Army aviation, ultimately launching the Army Aviation Restructuring Initiative (ARI) which included divestment of the OH-58D Kiowa Warrior and the cancellation of associated upgrade and replenishment programs.
The Army Acquisition Executive formally terminated CASUP and halted new Wartime Replacement Aircraft production in March 2014. The Army officially initiated Kiowa Warrior divestment in April 2014, which is currently scheduled to complete in 2017. Limited safety-critical sustainment efforts for the fielded fleet will continue as necessary to maintain Scout combat capabilities for ongoing contingency operations.
SYSTEM INTERDEPENDENCIES
2.75 Inch Rocket Systems (Hydra), HELLFIRE Family of Missiles, Aviation Combined Arms Tactical Trainer (AVCATT), Shadow Tactical Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (TUAV), Global Command and Control System--Army (GCCS-A), Distributed Common Ground System--Army (DCGS-A), Single Channel Ground and Airborne Radio System (SINCGARS), M3P .50 Caliber Machine Gun, ARC-231, BFT, CXP (APX-118) , IDM, AMPS
PROGRAM STATUS
• 2QFY14: CASUP terminated, new WRA production halted
• 3QFY14: OH-58 divestment Execution Order issued
• 1QFY15: OH-58D Kiowa Warrior Excess Materiel Survey Message issued
PROJECTED ACTIVITIES
None
FOREIGN MILITARY SALES
Divestment of the OH-58D fleet creates OH-58D Foreign Military Sales (FMS) opportunities. Eligible countries interested in the OH-58D as an Excess Defense Article (EDA) FMS have until mid-1QFY15 to respond to the excess materiel survey.
CONTRACTORS
Airframe:
Bell Helicopter Textron (Fort Worth, TX)
Sensor:
DRS Optronics Inc. (Palm Bay, FL)
Engine:
Rolls Royce Corp. (Indianapolis, IN)
Mission Computer:
Honeywell (Albuquerque, NM)
Cockpit Displays:
Elbit Systems of America (Fort Worth, TX)
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