Case Study

Inventory Verification and Configuration Management for Introduction of Apache AH-64E Weapons System into Royal Netherlands Air Force

Custom solution significantly improves asset tracking and operational readiness

Project Overview: The introduction of the Apache AH-64E
weapon system into the Royal Netherlands Air Force (RNLAF)
required the development of a rigorous process to ensure a 100%
accurate inventory of parts for each aircraft. This process involved
the identification and verification of Manufacturer Part Numbers
(MPNs), NCage codes, and serial numbers. Accurate data was
essential for configuring the weapon system within SAP and
achieving full configuration management across the fleet. The
RNLAF partnered with Camcode Global to develop the process
and enable a successful transition from AH-64D to AH-64E.

Challenges

The RNLAF’s Apache Project team encountered several challenges, including:

Data Inaccuracies
Legacy data from the AH-64D system contained errors where part numbers and serial numbers had been incorrectly recorded in SAP.
Data Format Inconsistencies
The manufacturer provided AH-64E data in PDF format, processed via electronic reading equipment, which introduced additional inaccuracies.
Airworthiness Regulations
To meet airworthiness requirements, the RNLAF must track more part and serial numbers than those provided by the manufacturer

These challenges required a detailed approach to ensure accurate data was recorded in SAP for configuration management and compliance with airworthiness regulations.

Camcode Global’s Role

To address these issues, the RNLAF’s Apache Project team partnered with Camcode Global to develop a process for verifying Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) markings on 

17,000 assets across 500 unique Manufacturer Part Numbers (MPNs); this was a crucial step in achieving a successful transition from the AH-64D to the AH-64E.

Camcode Global deployed its Automatic Identification Technology (AIT) solution across the fleet of 28 Apache AH-64E aircraft and the associated spare parts inventory. The company’s Data Validation Tool captured and validated OEM data and Unique Item Identifiers (UIIs), ensuring all asset data is being correctly recorded in SAP. This process is vital for maintaining the integrity and precision of Apache’s configuration management and asset tracking.

Key Benefits

Effective ITV facilitates the seamless monitoring of assets across global supply chains. Integrating UID marking, advanced tracking software, and NATO-standard systems such as LOGFAS enhances coordination among NATO member states. The above framework positions NATO operations for:

  • Enhanced asset tracking 
  • Improved logistical transparency 
  • Operational efficiency 
  • Mission readiness
Through these efforts, the Apache AH-64E upgrade was delivered with trusted and precise data, significantly improving configuration management, asset tracking, and operational readiness for the RNLAF.