Lockheed to upgrade IRST21
Lockheed Martin has received two contracts from Boeing to upgrade the Infrared Search and Track 21 (IRST21) sensor system used on the US Navy's F/A-18E/F fleet, the company announced on 19 October.
The Block II upgrade contracts, totalling up to $100 million, will see Lockheed Martin develop advanced software, perform hardware upgrades and deliver prototypes for the technology update.
The IRST21 sensor system uses IR search and track technology to detect and track airborne threats. Compared to radar, IRST21 enhances the resolution of multiple targets, enabling pilots to identify threat formations accurately at longer ranges.
The upgrade work will improve IRST21’s detection, tracking and ranging capabilities in radar-denied environments.
Paul Lemmo, VP of fire control/special operations forces contractor logistics support services at Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control, said: ‘The US Navy's strategic block upgrade programme enables us to continue advancing our technology and rapidly deliver it to the warfighter.
‘We are excited to implement the Block II upgrades and enhance IRST21's performance.’
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