Northrop Grumman has tested the ballistic missile defence (BMD) capabilities of the AN/AAQ-37 electro-optical distributed aperture system (DAS) for the F-35 Lightning II joint strike fighter.

During the test, the DAS successfully detected and tracked a two-stage rocket launch at a distance of over 800 miles aboard a BAC 1-11 testbed aircraft.

The DAS system includes multiple sensors, the images of which are fused together to create a seamless picture. It can pick up targets without assistance from an external cue.

It also provides pilots a 360° spherical day / night vision with the capability to see through the floor of the aircraft.

Northrop Grumman programme director for F-35 sensors Dave Bouchard said the DAS software architecture already included missile detection and tracking algorithms that could be applied to the BMD mission.

The AN/AAQ-37 DAS is a high-resolution omni-directional infrared sensor system that provides advanced spherical situational awareness capability including missile and aircraft detection, track and warning capabilities for the F-35 joint strike fighter.

How well do you really know your competitors?

Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.

Company Profile – free sample

Thank you!

Your download email will arrive shortly

Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample

We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form

By GlobalData
Visit our Privacy Policy for more information about our services, how we may use, process and share your personal data, including information of your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications. Our services are intended for corporate subscribers and you warrant that the email address submitted is your corporate email address.