Lockheed wins $270 million USAF contract for F-22 infrared sensor upgrade
The F-22A Raptor aircraft is currently undergoing upgrades to boost its in-service life. (Photo: USAF)
Tactical Infrared Search and Track (TacIRST) sensors will be installed to boost the fighter’s survivability and lethality.
Lockheed Martin has won a US$270 million contract from the US Air Force (USAF) to integrate a system of next-generation infrared defensive sensors onto the F-22 Raptor.
The Tactical Infrared Search and Track (TacIRST) sensors, also known as the Infrared Defensive System (IRDS), are an integrated solution developed by Lockheed. According to the company, they work to detect airborne threats with greater precision, as well as enhance the aircraft’s survivability and lethality.
Lockheed will also reportedly support the integration of this technology on other platforms. As of 2022, it was already deployed on F-5 Tiger jets who tested the TacIRST.
Related Articles
RTX Raytheon wins billion-dollar contract for F-22 sensors
Hank Tucker, VP of missions systems at Lockheed Martin, said: “We understand the need for advanced and versatile infrared systems like IRDS that will make pilots' missions more survivable and lethal against current and future adversaries.
“We're committed to supporting the Air Force through continuous innovation of capabilities to deter and defeat evolving threats.”
This contract joins a wider set of upgrades for the USAF’s F-22 Raptor aircraft to extend its service life. In September 2024, RTX was awarded a US$1 billion contract to upgrade the F-22’s sensors on 154 of its aircraft.
The F-22A Raptor is a fifth-generation stealth, air superiority fighter. With these future upgrades, it is expected to be in service with the USAF until the mid-2050s.
Related Equipment in Defence Insight
More from Air Warfare
-
![Leonardo signs contract on Austria’s M-346 aircraft order]()
Leonardo signs contract on Austria’s M-346 aircraft order
The first of the 12 M-346 aircraft are expected to be delivered to the Austrian Air Force by 2028, according to the company.
-
![2025 UAV market review: $7.8 billion in new contracts signed as US leads spending]()
2025 UAV market review: $7.8 billion in new contracts signed as US leads spending
Qatar and Indonesia followed the US’s high spending on new uncrewed aerial vehicle contracts across 2025, while MALE and micro drones and loitering munitions were particularly popular subcategories this year.
-
![German Navy in “ramp-up” phase as it welcomes first NH90 Sea Tiger delivery]()
German Navy in “ramp-up” phase as it welcomes first NH90 Sea Tiger delivery
With all 31 aircraft set to be delivered by 2030, the helicopters will gradually replace the ageing Sea Lynx fleet which are due to be retired in 2026.
