Lockheed Martin has been contracted to integrate a next-generation infrared search and track (IRST) system onto the F-22 Raptor.
The Infrared Defensive System will enhance the aircraft’s survivability and lethality against current and future threats.
In addition to the F-22, the $270-million contract supports the system’s integration on other platforms.
“We understand the need for advanced and versatile infrared systems like IRDS that will make pilots’ missions more survivable and lethal against current and future adversaries,” Vice President of Missions Systems at Lockheed Martin Hank Tucker said.
“We’re committed to supporting the Air Force through continuous innovation of capabilities to deter and defeat evolving threats.”
Infrared Defensive System
Not much has been disclosed about the system but the F-22 was earlier spotted being flight-tested with a set of underwing infrared sensor pods and external stealthy fuel tanks.
It will be in the form of a distributed set of embedded TacIRST, or tactical IRST, sensors, according to Lockheed’s press release.
Not clear though is how many sensors and other components the system will carry and how exactly it will be added to the aircraft: in a pod form or integrated with the aircraft’s core structure.
It will allow the aircraft to detect and track airborne threats through their infrared signature without revealing its own radiation, unlike radars.
The passive system will also enable the aircraft to detect and track stealthy aircraft while remaining immune to electronic warfare measures.
Part of Larger F-22 Upgrade
The IRST system is part of a $7.8-billion capability upgrade campaign for the aircraft.
It includes drop tanks for extra range, infrared sensors, better identification, friend-or-foe and Link 16 connectivity, upgraded software, electronic warfare, and navigation systems, plus additional weapons and hardware updates.
The upgrade will effectively push the aircraft’s retirement age well beyond the earlier cutoff of 2030, making it a bridge to the Next-Generation Air Dominance Fighter.
“Lockheed Martin is proud to continue partnering with the Air Force on essential modernization efforts for the Raptor, leveraging our expertise in 5th Generation aircraft and air dominance systems to integrate capabilities that ensure uninterrupted U.S. air superiority today and into the future,” F-22 program VP at Lockheed Martin Justin Taylor added.
