First Production F-35 Electro-Optical Targeting System Delivered

Lockheed has delivered the first production units of the F-35 Lightning II electro-optical targeting system (EOTS) to Lockheed Martin Aeronautics in Fort Worth, TX, for integration onto the aircraft.

The EOTS, claimed to be the first and only sensor in the world combining forward-looking infrared and infrared search and track functionality, is embedded into the F-35’s fuselage with an innovative faceted sapphire window.

The EOTS, equipped with the latest-generation infrared sensor technology, will provide high-resolution imagery, automatic target tracking, infrared search and track, laser designation and range finding, and laser spot tracking at increased stand-off ranges.

The F-35 EOTS, build on the model of Lockheed’s sniper advanced targeting pod, will provide air-to-air and air-to-ground situational awareness in a single compact and completely passive sensor to the Lightning II pilots of joint strike fighter aircraft.

The modular components incorporated in the F-35 EOTS, allows it to maintain the flight line for true two-level maintenance.