The Lockheed Martin-built Sniper advanced targeting pod (ATP) has secured operational flight status on the US Air Force’s (USAF) B-52 Stratofortress strategic bomber aircraft.
The activation of ATP B-52 site activation at Barksdale Air Force Base in Louisiana, US, makes the Sniper ATP the only operational targeting pod across six USAF fighter and bomber aircraft platforms.
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Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control fixed wing programs director Ken Fuhr said the operational flight status of the Sniper ATP on the B-52 offers the pod’s flexibility and advanced capabilities to additional warfighters.
”Sniper integration will provide aircrews with critical long-range, positive target identification and video datalink capability, along with an updated software suite that streamlines the targeting process and improves crew safety,” Fuhr said.
Designated as an AN/AAQ-33, the Sniper ATP helps pilots in positive target identification, autonomous tracking, coordinate generation, precise weapons guidance and non-traditional intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (NTISR) in all weather conditions.
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In addition to a laser spot tracker for acquisition of other laser spots from air and ground assets, the pod also includes an infrared marker for soldiers using night vision goggles, as well as a video down link to provide ground forces with enhanced situational awareness.
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By GlobalDataAdditional features include high-resolution, mid-wave forward looking infra red (FLIR) and TV sensors, which are used in combinationwith a dual-mode laser to enable eye-safe operation and precise geo-location in urban environments.
Extensively used during Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom in Iraq and Afghanistan, the pods are currently installed onboard the USAF and multinational F-16, F-15, B-1, F-18, Harrier GR7/9, A-10C and CF-18 aircraft.
In addition to this, the US Air National Guard (ANG) uses Sniper ATPs on their fixed-wing aircraft for conducting long-range detection, identification and surveillance support missions.
Image: A Sniper Advanced Targeting Pod mounted under the wing of a USAF B-52 bomber aircraft. Photo courtesy of US Air Force.
