Meggitt to develop ECU for F/A-18E/F IRST system

Boeing has chosen Meggitt Defense Systems to develop an environmental control unit (ECU) as a part of the engineering and manufacturing development phase of the F/A-18E/F Super Hornet Infrared Search and Track (IRST) system.

The ECU features a field-proven heat exchanger, compressor assembly and advanced electronic controller technologies, and provides cooling for critical components as well as ensuring the reliability of the infrared-based system.

The IRST system enables F/A-18E/F aircrews to search, track and engage targets quickly in dense threat environments.

The Super Hornet is a multirole aircraft capable of performing every mission in the tactical spectrum including day/night strikes with precision-guided weapons, suppressing enemy air defences and reconnaissance operations.

Boeing has subcontracted Meggitt to provide ECUs to US Navy F/A-18E/F and US Air Force F-15C IRST programmes.