The US Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) has contracted Telephonics, a wholly owned subsidiary of Griffon Corporation, for its identification friend or foe (IFF) interrogators.

Under the more than $21m multi-year contract, Telephonics will integrate its AN/UPX-43(V) IFF interrogators on the new US Navy and Royal Australian Air Force P-8A Poseidon aircraft.

The indefinite delivery / indefinite quantity (IDIQ) contract will see the company manufacture and deliver the IFF systems to US and Australian P-8A operators.

"Our proven, 30-year track record designing and developing IFF interrogator technology gives us complete confidence that our system will surpass expectations."

Designed to provide situational awareness for the airborne operator, Telephonics’ AN/UPX-43 IFF interrogator enables air traffic controllers and air defenders to identify military and civilian aircraft, verify forces as friendly and report their identification number, bearing and range.

The AN/UPX-43 system can operate in a wide range of environments and complies with all US and international specifications that define interrogator modes, performance, control, reporting, and interface.

Telephonics’ AN/UPX-43(V) IFF interrogator has been developed to support multiple applications and is well suited for the P-8A’s long-range maritime patrol and anti-submarine warfare missions.

Telephonics president and chief executive officer Joseph J Battaglia said: "Telephonics is pleased to be chosen for these mission-critical US Navy and Royal Australian Air Force programmes that help monitor, manage and further secure airspace and maritime domains around the world.

"Our proven, 30-year track record designing and developing IFF interrogator technology gives us complete confidence that our system will surpass expectations on the new P-8A platform."

Telephonics’ IFF Interrogators All-Mode line of products includes the AN/UPX-40, AN/UPX-505(V) and AN/UPX-44, with all currently operational onboard various platforms.