RTX won a $117.5 million contract from the U.S. Army to produce an advanced targeting sensor system.
The contract calls for low-rate initial production of 3rd Generation Forward Looking Infrared B-Kit sensors, which enhance the lethality, survivability and situational awareness in severe environments. RTX will deliver the sensors for the Army’s combat platforms, including the advanced Abrams Main Battle Tanks and an option for optionally manned fighting vehicles.
“This technology supports the U.S. Army’s modernization effort to ensure the force is ready to address near-peer competitors,” said Torrey Cady, vice president of electro-optical and infrared solutions at Raytheon.
The 3GEN FLIR B-Kit is platform agnostic, meaning it also delivers a common operating picture for future combat ground vehicles. This will provide significant standoff for target detection, recognition and identification; and ensure high-resolution imagery is delivered for decision-making. RTX’s dual-band infrared system actually creates high-resolution images to help military commanders see at night and in adverse conditions.
In fact, Raytheon has delivered over 25,000 second-generation FLIR sensors in the past 20 years and applied its lessons learned to the 3GEN FLIR sensor production.
“Our technological advancements in the sensors reduce latency and give military forces a critical battlefield edge by exceeding overall performance of prior generation systems,” Cady said.
The 3GEN FLIR B-Kit commonality will also support overall Army affordability and sustainability goals.