MH-53J/M Pave Low III/IV

Mission

Perform medium-range, low-level, night and adverse weather infiltration/extraction; resupply SOF in the field; and pathfinder operations.  Unique capabilities permit selected personnel recovery operations.

Description

	TF/TA radar
	Forward looking infrared (FLIR) equipment
	Precision navigation instruments; improved mission computers
	Armor protective systems for aircraft components, crew, passengers
	Fuel range extension systems; aerial refueling capability
	Alternate command and control platform
	Moving map displays
	Upgraded engines; automatic blade fold and tail folding for shipboard operations
	Significantly improved aircraft safety, reliability and maintainability
	Six of the older MH-53Js will be de-modified to TH-35Bs and used exclusively for training
	Improved weapons and defensive avionics systems
	Completed shipboard compatibility and enhanced gross-weight upgrades and Service Life Extension Program (SLEP) (completes renovation of the structural, electrical and hydraulic systems

Status

Twenty-five aircraft to be upgraded with Interactive Defensive Avionics System/Multi-Mission Advanced Tactical Terminal (IDAS/MATT) and redesignated as M models.

Contractor

IDAS/MATT: Lockheed Martin Federal Systems; Owego, New York