Lockheed Martin has been contracted to deliver Infrared Search and Track (IRST) 21 Block II systems and associated initial spares to the US Navy and Air National Guard (ANG).
The $233-million firm-fixed-price contract is in support of the full rate production and delivery of the IRST 21, with completion expected by September 2029.
The award follows the US Navy’s recent declaration of initial operational capability for the system.
Under the deal, Lockheed Martin will supply 59 infrared receivers — 51 for the navy and eight for the ANG — along with 20 inertial measurement units for the navy and 45 processors, including 37 for the navy and eight for the ANG.
Infrared Search and Track 21 Block II
Built for the F/A-18 Super Hornet, the IRST system detects, tracks, and ranges beyond visual range aerial targets by their heat.
As it operates passively without emitting a signal, the system is resistant to electronic jamming.
The IRST 21 Block II extends detection range and accelerates target data delivery, improving situational awareness and decision-making speed.
Compliments Aircraft’s Radar
Mounted on the nose of the centerline fuel tank of the F/A-18E/F Super Hornet, the IRST 21 complements the aircraft’s AN/APG-79 radar for operations in radar-denied or jammed environments.
For F-15 and F-16 fighters, the IRST21 comes in a modular Legion Pod that can be externally mounted, providing rapid deployment capability.
“IRST21 Block II delivers a game-changing leap in passive warfighting capabilities across multiple platforms,” IRST21 program director for Lockheed Martin Cristin Stengel said.
“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.”
