The U.S. Navy has declared Initial Operating Capability (IOC) for a new infrared search-and-track sensor system developed by Lockheed Martin for F/A-18 Super Hornet strike fighters, according to a press release.
At the heart of the innovative system is IRST21, Lockheed Martin’s long-wave infrared search-and-track sensor that passively detects airborne targets well beyond visual range. This enhanced sensor is expected to boost the Super Hornet’s operational effectiveness and improve mission survivability for Naval Aviators.
The IOC declaration is seen as a key milestone supporting a full-rate production decision following successful flight tests by the Navy.
In a news update, Lockheed Martin’s IRST programmes director Paul Hey was quoted as saying, “Achieving IOC for IRST21 is a significant milestone and a testament to the strong partnership between Lockheed Martin and the U.S. Navy. This advanced sensor provides a critical capability to detect and track airborne threats at greater distances, ensuring pilots can complete their missions with enhanced situational awareness and survivability.”
Hank Tucker, vice president of Mission Systems for Lockheed Martin’s Sensors & Global Sustainment organisation, was also quoted as saying,
“With this game-changing leap in passive sensing technology, IRST21 will fundamentally reshape how air warfare is conducted while keeping pilots ahead of threats. We’re proud to enhance the Super Hornet with an advanced sensor system that ensures strategic superiority in evolving threat environments.”
The new infrared sensor capability is expected to play a crucial role in modernising air combat operations by providing pilots with improved long-range threat detection, thereby contributing to the overall safety and effectiveness of U.S. naval aviation, say the company.
Stealth, the Emperor’s new clothes.
There’s one fundamental problem with the F18’s IRST. It’s located in the front of an external fuel tank. Which means the F18 pilot has to make the decision of either keeping the IRST/fuel tank whilst closing with an enemy or dropping it, to save on weight and drag. I believe they are looking at a similar external solution for the F22. Both of these aircraft should really have an airframe mounted device, but there’s unlikely any space in the nose, so they’ll have to make go with this Heath Robinson fix.
I listened to an episode of the Fighter Pilot Podcast where the host said he never dropped a fuel tank during his whole career in the USN. He was an F/A-18 driver, and had even been a Top Gun instructor.