Fri, May 27, 2011
Upgraded Device Provides New Targeting Capabilities
Delivery of Target Sight System (TSS) follow-on production units
for the U.S. Marine Corps' AH-1Z Cobra attack helicopter has gotten
underway. The TSS units feature upgraded software to provide
additional targeting capabilities.
TSS is the multi-sensor fire control system for the AH-1Z
developed by Lockheed Martin, integrating state-of-the-art sensors
to provide pilots with enhanced capabilities to acquire, track and
designate targets. The highly stabilized sensor suite includes a
laser designator, color video display and a third-generation,
mid-wave, forward-looking infrared sensor with advanced image
processing.
"The TSS team has been working diligently to assure the AH-1Z
Cobra is one of the most effective attack helicopters to counter
today's battlefield threats," said Joseph Butera, TSS senior
program manager at Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control. "The
team ensured that the squadron had the hardware they needed when
they needed it, and the sensors performed flawlessly during
testing."
The integration of the TSS with the AH-1Z Cobra fire control
system gives pilots the capability to detect and identify targets
before they fly into the range of the threat, ensuring increased
standoff range and precise target engagements in every climate and
location.
Lockheed Martin delivered the first follow-on production unit
two months ahead of schedule. Early integration of upgraded system
software provides enhancements based on flight test results and
user feedback. Additional targeting capabilities include a new
target sizing function, refined geo-location accuracy and superior
weapon alignment. The Cobra attack helicopter achieved initial
operating capability in February 2011.
The Naval Surface Warfare Center awarded the initial TSS
production contract in March 2008 and a follow-on production
contract in June 2010. The system is produced at Lockheed Martin
facilities in Florida. Production is expected to continue through
2018.
More News
Instrument Runway A runway equipped with electronic and visual navigation aids for which a precision or nonprecision approach procedure having straight-in landing minimums has been>[...]
Aero Linx: Alaska Airmen's Association The Alaska Airmen's Association includes over 2,000 members—we are one of the largest General Aviation communities in the country. We s>[...]
Also: Flt School Security, G600 Steep-Approach, Honduran Aid, PW545D Cert Two aircraft performing at the Fort Lauderdale Air Show clipped wings during a routine last Sunday, spooki>[...]
Also: SkyReach Parts Support, Piper Service Ctr, Airliner Near-Miss, Airshow London The Judge overseeing Icon's convoluted Chapter 11 process has approved $9 million in Chapter 11 >[...]
Also: Paramotor Champ's, Electric Ultralight, ICON BK Update, Burt Rutan at Oshkosh! The Popular Rotorcraft Association is reaching out for help in rebuilding their private runway >[...]
ANN's Daily Aero-Term (05.16.24): Instrument Runway
See All