The US Naval Surface Warfare Center has awarded a third follow-on contract to Lockheed Martin to produce the target sight system (TSS) for the US Marine Corps (USMC) AH-1Z Cobra attack helicopter.

The $49.9m order follows an initial TSS production contract in March 2008 and a follow-on production contract in June 2010.

The TSS is the multisensor fire control system for the AH-1Z Cobra that helps pilots to detect and identify targets before nearing the range of the threat.

The highly stabilised sensor suite consists of a laser designator, colour video display and a third-generation, mid-wave, forward-looking infrared sensor with advanced image processing.

The system ensures increased stand-off range, precise target engagements, accurate weapons delivery and reduced operator workload.

Lockheed delivered the first system in June 2009, and recently began early delivery of low-rate initial production units.

Production of the system will be performed at the company’s facilities in Ocala and Orlando, Florida, US, and is expected to continue until 2018.

Naval Technology Excellence Awards - Nominations Closed

Nominations are now closed for the Naval Technology Excellence Awards. A big thanks to all the organisations that entered – your response has been outstanding, showcasing exceptional innovation, leadership, and impact.

Excellence in Action
Virtualitics has secured the Innovation and Business Expansion awards for its Integrated Readiness Optimization (IRO) suite. Discover how its explainable AI is transforming maintenance, sustainment and mission readiness, giving defence leaders faster, clearer, and more confident operational decisions.

Discover the Impact