QinetiQ to play pivotal role in US Army’s next-generation target acquisition system
The LRAS3, seen here in service with Georgia National Guard, is expected to be replaced by FALCONS. (Photo: Georgia National Guard)
The Future Advanced Long-range Common Optical/Netted-fires Sensor (FALCONS) is a next-generation target acquisition system which is designed to provide enhanced all-weather target detection and identification at long range.
QinetiQ US has announced its involvement in the US Army’s FALCONS optical sensor system which is planned to replace the existing Long-Range Advanced Scout Surveillance System (LRAS3).
FALCONS is designed to provide enhanced all-weather target detection and identification at ranges exceeding enemy weapons systems' effective ranges. It will enhance the US Army's battlefield sensing capabilities while supporting its modernisation objectives for 2030 and beyond.
According to QinetiQ, “the FALCONS programme represents a significant advancement in military sensor technology, incorporating artificial intelligence [AI] and potential semi-autonomous capabilities.
Related Articles
DRS Technologies receives $20.3m follow-on order for LRAS3
Raytheon integrates LRAS3 connectivity in recent exercise
“It is designed to reduce soldier workload while improving target detection and recognition.”
The effort is led by the US Army’s Programme Executive Office - Intelligence, Electronic Warfare and Sensors (PEO IEW&S).
The office sees the programme as “[leveraging] machine learning and AI to increase the speed and accuracy with which an operator detects, recognises, and identifies threats.
“FALCONS will be a truly paradigm-shifting capability that will enable the army to outpace the threat for many years to come.”
QinetiQ has history with PEO IEW&S dating back to 2016.
Earlier this year the company was awarded a five-year, US$31.5 million task order supporting the office in the the design, development and integration activities for the Integrated Sensor Architecture programme. This contract aims to help support data sharing of sensors seamlessly across battlefield networks.
Related Equipment in Defence Insight
More from Land Warfare
-
![AUSA 2025: Lionstrike lays out plans for British Army vehicle bid as competitors get ready]()
AUSA 2025: Lionstrike lays out plans for British Army vehicle bid as competitors get ready
In September 2025, BAE Systems announced that it was joining GM Defense and NP Aerospace to form Team Lionstrike. The team will be offering a version of GM Defense’s infantry support vehicle which is based on the commercial Colorado vehicle.
-
![AUSA 2025: KNDS France to bid for US Army requirement]()
AUSA 2025: KNDS France to bid for US Army requirement
The CAESAR Mk II, which was debuted internationally at Eurosatory last year, is a step up from the first model which has seen combat in Ukraine and the Middle East.
-
![AUSA 2025: IAI reveals robotic route clearance system]()
AUSA 2025: IAI reveals robotic route clearance system
The Elta 6631 has been developed using the experience of the Israel Defense Forces in route proving, and can be customised for various customers and circumstances.
-
![AUSA 2025: Boeing wins $2.7 billion PAC-3 production contract as it explores supply chain expansion]()
AUSA 2025: Boeing wins $2.7 billion PAC-3 production contract as it explores supply chain expansion
Boeing will work with prime contractor Lockheed Martin to boost PAC-3 production capacity to hit higher delivery targets, as demand for the interceptors continues to surge.
-
![AUSA 2025: AM General “on target” for JLTV full-rate production in 2026 as it uncrews a Humvee]()
AUSA 2025: AM General “on target” for JLTV full-rate production in 2026 as it uncrews a Humvee
AM General believes it has completed working with customers for the Joint Light Tactical Vehicles to reach a final version of the vehicle and to prepare to begin producing vehicles under full rate production.
-
![AUSA 2025: Honeywell debuts SAMURAI CUAS system after demonstrations and trials]()
AUSA 2025: Honeywell debuts SAMURAI CUAS system after demonstrations and trials
The system is designed to operate against uncrewed aerial systems (UAS) and has been demonstrated for the US Army and Department of Defense. It is designed to be agnostic and provide software and C2 systems in support of a range of sensors and effectors.
