 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
| . |  |
. |
Major Boost To The F/A-18 Strike Capability
Canberra, Australia (SPX) Sep 06, 2005 Northrop Grumman has been chosen as the preferred supplier of a state-of-the-art laser weapon targeting system for Australia's F/A-18 Hornet fighter aircraft as part of a project worth more than $100 million. Defence Minister Robert Hill said Defence had recommended the LITENING pod manufactured by Northrop Grumman, with RAFAEL being a major subcontractor. Defence assessed three systems - including the Advanced Targeting Forward Looking Infra-Red pod manufactured by Raytheon and the Pantera pod manufactured by Lockheed Martin. Senator Hill said the systems will be a vital component of the Hornet's weapons suite. Northrop Grumman's bid was chosen because it provided the most number of pods as well as the best value for money. "The target designation systems will improve the detection, identification, precision targeting and damage assessment phases of F/A-18 air support operations," Senator Hill said. "The pods produce an image of the target area on a screen in the cockpit, similar to a black and white television picture. "The pilot is then able to use this image to exactly designate the desired target, to maximise accuracy and minimise collateral damage. "The aircraft will be better equipped to detect and attack targets by day or night, increasing their operational effectiveness and reducing risk to aircraft and crew." The target designation system includes a laser system, allowing for the employment of precision laser guided bombs. The first squadron is expected to be equipped with the new system by early 2007. This project is one of a number of planned upgrades to the Hornet aircraft that will ensure the potent strike capability of our fighter fleet continues.
Related Links 
Brisbane, Australia (SPX) Sep 05, 2005Metal Storm has announced that the US Army's Armament Research, Development and Engineering Center (ARDEC) has selected the Company's Small Business Innovative Research (SBIR) Phase II proposal titled 'Metal Storm Crowd Control System' for a contract award, subject to successful completion of contract negotiations. |
|
|
| The content herein, unless otherwise known to be public domain, are Copyright 1995-2006 - SpaceDaily.AFP and UPI Wire Stories are copyright Agence France-Presse and United Press International. ESA PortalReports are copyright European Space Agency. All NASA sourced material is public domain. Additionalcopyrights may apply in whole or part to other bona fide parties. Advertising does not imply endorsement,agreement or approval of any opinions, statements or information provided by SpaceDaily on any Web page published or hosted by SpaceDaily. Privacy Statement |
