The US Air Force (USAF) has awarded $176.1m contract to Lockheed Martin for the delivery of sniper advanced targeting pod-sensor enhancement (ATP-SE) production and upgrade kits to covert sniper ATPs to the ATP-SE configuration.
The Sniper ATP is designed to provide pilots with high-resolution imagery for precision targeting and non-traditional intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance missions.
Upgrade kits includes line replaceable units that will be installed in fielded ATPs of the USAF.
Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control Fire Control / SOF CLSS vice-president Paul Lemmo said: "With the purchase of new Sniper ATP-SEs and the continued conversion of Sniper ATPs to ATP-SEs, the US Air Force will gain greater targeting capability and performance across its multi-platform fleet.
"Lockheed Martin’s ongoing investments and Sniper’s modular, open architecture have ensured it can address growing threats and remain the pod of choice for air forces worldwide."
Deliveries under the new contract are expected to begin in fourth quarter 2016.
Equipped with improved sensors, a two-way datalink and algorithms, the system will allow aircraft crew to detect, identify, automatically track and laser designate small tactical targets at long ranges, supporting employment of all laser- and GPS-guided weapons against multiple fixed and moving targets.
The Lockheed’s solution is interoperable across multiple platforms, including F-2, F-15, F-16, F-18, A-10, B-1 and B-52 aircraft.
Recently, Lockheed received a contract to equip the Royal Netherlands Air Force’s (RNLAF) F-16 fleet with Sniper ATP.
The contract covers the delivery of 29 Sniper ATPs as well as support equipment, training and sustainment.
Image: A USAF F-15E Strike Eagle carries the Sniper pod as it flies during a mission in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. Photo: courtesy of USAF.
