DA Form 2408-4-3: AH-64A Weapon Sighting Data Guide

DA Form 2408-4-3: AH-64A Weapon Sighting Data Guide – The DA Form 2408-4-3 is a specialized US Army maintenance record used exclusively for the AH-64A Apache attack helicopter. It documents critical weapon sighting, boresight, and harmonization data to ensure the aircraft’s weapons systems and sensors align accurately for safe and effective operations.

Download the Official DA Form 2408-4-3 PDF:
https://armypubs.army.mil/pub/eforms/DR_a/pdf/A2408_4_3.pdf

What Is DA Form 2408-4-3?

DA Form 2408-4-3, titled Weapon Sighting Data (AH-64A), is part of the Army Maintenance Management System – Aviation (TAMMS-A). It records sighting corrections and boresight harmonization data for the AH-64A Apache’s integrated weapons and sensor systems.

This form supports the AH-64A’s complex suite, including the Target Acquisition Designation Sight (TADS), Pilot Night Vision Sensor (PNVS), gun, and pylon-mounted weapons. Accurate records help maintain precision fire control and sensor alignment.

Note: A related form, DA Form 2408-4-4, exists for later AH-64 variants. The 2408-4-3 is specific to the AH-64A model.

Purpose of the Weapon Sighting Data Form

The primary purpose of DA Form 2408-4-3 is to maintain a permanent, auditable record of boresight alignments and corrector settings. This ensures:

  • Weapons and sensors remain harmonized within tolerances.
  • Crews can verify alignment before missions.
  • Maintenance teams track changes due to repairs, modifications, or environmental factors.
  • Compliance with DA PAM 738-751 procedures for aviation maintenance records.

Proper sighting data directly impacts mission effectiveness and safety for the Apache’s 30mm chain gun, rockets, and Hellfire missiles.

Key Sections on DA Form 2408-4-3

The form includes standardized blocks for helicopter identification and detailed sighting entries:

  • Block 1: End Item — Typically “HELICOPTER”.
  • Block 2: Serial Number — Aircraft serial number.
  • Block 3: Model — “AH-64A”.
  • Block 4: UIC — Unit Identification Code.
  • FCC S/N and Air Data Proc S/N — Fire Control Computer and related serial numbers.
  • Boresight Harmonization — Records for TADS corrections, gun correctors, PNVS, and individual pylon correctors (Pylons 1-4).
  • Date, Azimuth (AZ), Elevation (EL), Roll, etc. — Specific alignment measurements and thumbwheel settings.

Entries often include MR (milliradian) corrections for forward elevation, azimuth, pitch, yaw, and roll.

How to Fill Out DA Form 2408-4-3?

Follow instructions in DA PAM 738-751 (Functional Users Manual for the Army Maintenance Management System-Aviation). Use black ballpoint pen or authorized digital methods. Key steps include:

  1. Enter helicopter identification data (serial, model, UIC).
  2. Record component serial numbers (e.g., FCC, Air Data Processor).
  3. Perform and document boresight/harmonization procedures per applicable technical manuals.
  4. Log dates and specific corrector values (AZ, EL, etc.) for each system and pylon.
  5. Ensure entries are legible, complete, and signed/initialed with Personnel Identifier (PID).

Always cross-reference with aircraft technical publications for exact alignment procedures. Boresighting typically occurs during maintenance or before key missions.

Importance in AH-64A Apache Maintenance

The AH-64A relies on precise integration between its sighting systems (TADS/PNVS), fire control, and weapons. Misalignment can lead to inaccurate fire, reduced effectiveness, or safety issues. DA Form 2408-4-3 provides a historical log that:

  • Supports quality control and inspections.
  • Aids in troubleshooting alignment problems.
  • Ensures regulatory compliance during transfers or audits.
  • Complements other forms like DA Form 2408-4-1 (Weapon Record Data).

This form is a required logbook record for AH-64A aircraft.

  • DA PAM 738-751 — Primary guidance for all aviation forms and records.
  • DA Form 2408-4-1 — Weapon Record Data.
  • DA Form 2408-13 series — Aircraft status and maintenance records.
  • AR 95-1 — Flight regulations referencing these records.

Maintain forms in the aircraft logbook for quick access by aircrew and maintenance personnel.

Best Practices for US Army Aviation Units

  • Perform alignments after major maintenance, component replacements, or as scheduled.
  • Keep forms current and accurate to avoid discrepancies during inspections.
  • Use the official PDF from Army Publishing Directorate for printing or digital workflows.
  • Train personnel on proper boresighting techniques and form completion.
  • Store historical copies as required by regulations.

For the most current guidance, consult your unit’s Quality Control (QC) section or the latest version of DA PAM 738-751.

Download Official Form:
DA Form 2408-4-3 PDF

This article provides general information based on official US Army sources. Always refer to current technical manuals, DA PAM 738-751, and unit SOPs for authoritative procedures. Proper use of this form helps maintain the AH-64A Apache’s combat readiness.