Lockheed Martin has received a $233 million firm-fixed-price contract to deliver its IRST21 Block II systems and initial spares to the U.S. Navy and Air National Guard.
The IRST21 is the company’s next-generation infrared search and track sensor, a long-wave infrared system that passively detects and tracks airborne targets at extended ranges. The system provides longer range detection and faster target data, improving situational awareness and reducing decision-making time to keep forces ready to engage threats.
The Block II variant, part of this award, includes upgraded optics, advanced processors and algorithms that extend threat-detection range and provide tracking and targeting data for beyond-visual-range missile engagements.
The contract follows the Navy’s recent declaration of initial operational capability for the IRST21, clearing the way for full-rate production and fleet deployment of the Block II version.
“IRST21 Block II delivers a game-changing leap in passive warfighting capabilities across multiple platforms,” said Cristin Stengel, IRST21 program director for Lockheed Martin. “By significantly enhancing the range and accuracy to enable weapon employment in challenging environments, this system ensures pilots remain ahead of evolving adversaries and mission-ready at all times.”
On the F/A-18E/F Super Hornet, the IRST21 is mounted on the nose of the centerline fuel tank, complementing the aircraft’s AN/APG-79 radar in radar-denied or heavy electronic attack environments. For the F-15 and F-16, the system is embedded in the Legion Pod, a modular, externally mounted unit that provides sixth-generation targeting capability to fourth-generation aircraft. Operating passively without emitting a signal, the system is resistant to electronic jamming, helping maintain an advantage where survivability and rapid response are vital.