US Army tests laser targeting system
The US Army has tested a new Joint Effects Targeting System Target Laser Designation System (JETS-TLDS) at the Cold Regions Test Center in Alaska, it was announced on 19 October.
The JETS-TLDS is a modular advanced sensor suite of three components: a hand-held target location module, precision azimuth and vertical angle module, and laser marker module.The system enables forward observers (FOs) to quickly acquire and locate targets for any given fire mission, and provides 24/7 all-weather precision targeting and target-acquisition in support of dismounted operations.
Soldiers carried out testing to collect operational data on the system, with each test day involving ten hours of operational use and averaging 40 target acquisitions per FO team.
The test provided the FO teams an operationally realistic approach to detect, recognise and identify targets in a tactical environment. The soldiers were dropped off at a release point where they moved on foot over the mountainous Alaskan terrain at elevations between 1,000-2,500m to several different observation posts (OP). Upon arriving at each OP, they set up the system and established their location by using system self-location methods.
JETS-TLDS helps to determine the category of accuracy for each target location acquired by the FO. The system weighs approximately 20lbs including tripod and batteries.
Results of the testing will help inform a full rate production decision for the system.
More from Land Warfare
-
![Polaris expands Arctic mobility offering as US military orders grow]()
Polaris expands Arctic mobility offering as US military orders grow
The Military 850 Voyageur 155 Crossover has secured orders from the US Army, Air Force and Marine Corps, addressing demand for agile Arctic mobility with passenger, cargo and towing capacity.
-
![More bidders move onto starting grid for British Army Land Rover replacement programme]()
More bidders move onto starting grid for British Army Land Rover replacement programme
The Light Mobility Vehicle segment of the UK’s Land Mobility Programme for the British Army may actually be about to make progress, or at least likely bidders seem to think so. Shephard spoke with several contenders who revealed their views on how the army should replace the ageing fleet.
-
![Northrop Grumman pushing ahead with smaller Integrated Battle Command System]()
Northrop Grumman pushing ahead with smaller Integrated Battle Command System
Northrop Grumman’s Integrated Battle Command System is in service with Polish forces and is being introduced to US forces, with further development underway on the original platform as well as a smaller, more mobile system.
-
![UK’s ground-based air defence effort remains in assessment phase after third industry day]()
UK’s ground-based air defence effort remains in assessment phase after third industry day
The UK’s plan to introduce a new air defence capability into the British Army will cover short and medium-range defence as well as counter-uncrewed aerial system systems. Timelines are not yet laid out but industry is making plans.
