Boeing and Lockheed Martin to build infrared search and track systems for F/A-18E/F combat aircraft

摘要

PATUXENT RIVER NAS, Md.—U.S. Navy air combat experts are asking electro-optics engineers at the Boeing Co. and Lockheed Martin Corp. to build infrared search and track (IRST) sensors for the F/A-18E/F Super Hornet jet fighter-bomber to enable the aircraft to detect, track, and attack enemy aircraft in a stealthy way without making its presence known. Officials of the Naval Air Systems Command at Patuxent River Naval Air Station, Md., announced a $55 million contract to the Boeing Co. Defense, Space & Security segment in St. Louis in January to build as many as six IRST Block II low-rate initial production III systems. The Super Hornet combat aircraft IRST is a long-wave infrared detection system that targets enemy aircraft in conditions where the Super Hornet cannot use its radar. The system, which Boeing is buying from the Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control segment in Orlando, Fla., uses infrared search and track technology to detect and provide weapons-quality track solutions on potentially hostile aircraft. The IRST Block I, also called the IRST21 Sensor System, fits on the front of the Super Hornet's centerline fuel tank. Two years ago Navy leaders approved a restructured program that foregoes full-rate production of Block I sensors and proceeds directly to the Block II system.