The US Air Force (USAF) will arm its pilots with new targeting pods to increase the capabilities of the A-10C Thunderbolt II jet aircraft currently in operation over Iraq and Afghanistan.

The Sniper Advanced Targeting Pods will be installed on the fleet of A-10Cs assigned to the USAF’s 23d Fighter Group, replacing the Litening Advanced Targeting Pods.

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USAF unit commander lieutenant colonel Derek Oaks said the new sniper pods are already in active use on other aircraft including the B-1B Lancer, F-15Es and F-16s.

The sniper pod has a longer range, a stronger laser and is about 100lb lighter; however, the software required to use it and the way it attaches to the plane does not require any special installation.

The pods feature non-traditional intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance to monitor enemy movements and will provide enhanced capability to fight potential threats.

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