Aircraft

IRST on test for Super Hornet

Lockheed Martin has been selected to supply the infrared search and track (IRST) sensor for the Boeing F/A-18E/F Block 2 Super Hornet. The long-wave IR sensor will be mounted in the nose of the aircraft’s 1,820 litre centre-line fuel tank, reducing capacity to 1,250l but providing passive detection and tracking of airborne targets at long range without taking up an external stores station. A proof-of-concept demonstrator will fly later this year. The US Navy plans to buy 150 IRST sensors for its Super Hornets, with the system scheduled to become operational in 2012-13.