Lockheed Martin will equip the F-22 Raptor aircraft with a system of next-generation infrared defensive sensors as part of a $270 million contract from the U.S. Air Force.
The defense contractor said Wednesday the stealth fighter aircraft will be fitted with the Infrared Defensive System, or IRDS, a set of embedded TacIRST sensors designed to boost its survivability and lethality.
Highlighting Lockheed’s commitment to supporting the Air Force, Hank Tucker, vice president of Missions Systems at Lockheed, said, “We understand the need for advanced and versatile infrared systems like IRDS that will make pilots’ missions more survivable and lethal against current and future adversaries.”
F-22 Raptor
The aircraft fleet has recorded 550,000 flight hours since it became operational in September 1997. As an air dominance fighter, the F-22 boasts of stealth, speed, agility and situational awareness and features lethal long-range air-to-air and air-to-ground weaponry.
It is capable of connecting with other platforms in support of the Air Force’s Joint All-Domain Operations strategy.
“Lockheed Martin is proud to continue partnering with the Air Force on essential modernization efforts for the Raptor, leveraging our expertise in 5th Generation aircraft and air dominance systems to integrate capabilities that ensure uninterrupted U.S. air superiority today and into the future,” said Justin Taylor, vice president, F-22 program at Lockheed.