Lockheed to supply IRST system for US Navy

Lockheed Martin has been selected to supply the Infrared Search and Track (IRST) sensor system for the US Navy F/A-18E/F aircraft programme as it enters the engineering, manufacturing and development (EMD) phase.

The IRST system is a passive, long-range sensor that will be installed on the navy’s F/A-18E/F Super Hornet aircraft radar to enhance the overall weapon system performance.

The system, equipped with radar-jamming technology, can simultaneously track multiple targets and provides air-to-air targeting capability when encountering advanced threats.

The sensor system will also provide improved situational awareness, lethality and survivability capabilities for the aircrew.

Initial operating capability of the F/A-18E/F IRST is scheduled to be completed in 2016.

The company has been subcontracted by Boeing for the F-15C programme.