Lockheed Martin Secures $233M Contract for IRST21 Block II to Boost U.S. Air Superiority

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Lockheed Martin has secured a fixed-price contract worth $233 million to supply the United States Navy and Air National Guard with the advanced IRST21 Block II system, along with initial spare parts. This agreement represents a significant step forward in enhancing the combat readiness of U.S. air forces, ensuring that both current and future generations of fighter aircraft remain capable of meeting evolving threats in modern aerial warfare.

Photo: lockheedmartin.com

IRST21 Block II System Capabilities

The IRST21 (Infrared Search and Track) is a cutting-edge long-wave infrared sensor designed to passively detect and track airborne targets at extended ranges. Unlike radar systems, which emit signals that can be intercepted or jammed, IRST21 operates silently, making it extremely difficult for adversaries to detect. This passive capability provides pilots with a critical advantage, allowing them to identify and monitor enemy aircraft without revealing their own position.

Photo: lockheedmartin.com

Latest Capabilities of Block II Variant

The Block II variant of the IRST21 introduces several key improvements over its predecessor. Equipped with advanced optics, a next-generation processor, and refined algorithms, the system offers greater detection range and improved accuracy in identifying potential threats. These enhancements are particularly valuable in beyond-visual-range (BVR) engagements, where pilots must rely on precise targeting data to launch missiles before enemy aircraft come within visual contact.

The timing of this contract is also significant. It follows the U.S. Navy’s declaration of Initial Operational Capability (IOC) for the IRST21 Block II, signaling that the system has already met essential performance benchmarks and is ready for broader deployment. This milestone paves the way for full-rate production and integration across multiple platforms.

Photo: lockheedmartin.com

Expert Perspectives on the Technology

Cristin Stengel, Program Director for IRST21 at Lockheed Martin, described the Block II system as a revolutionary leap in passive air combat technology. According to Stengel, the system not only enhances detection accuracy but also provides resilience in environments where electronic warfare is prevalent. In modern conflicts, where adversaries increasingly rely on jamming and radar disruption, the ability to operate effectively without emitting signals is a decisive advantage.

Integration Across Multiple Aircraft

One of the strengths of the IRST21 Block II is its adaptability across different fighter platforms. On the F/A-18E/F Super Hornet, the system is integrated into the nose of the centerline fuel tank, complementing the AN/APG-79 radar. This configuration ensures that the aircraft remains effective even in radar-denied or heavily jammed environments.

For legacy fighters such as the F-15 and F-16, the IRST21 is available in the form of the Legion Pod, a modular and easily attachable system. This allows fourth-generation aircraft to gain sixth-generation-level targeting capabilities without requiring extensive modifications. By extending the operational relevance of these aircraft, the IRST21 provides a cost-effective modernization path for the U.S. Air Force and Air National Guard.

The Passive Advantage

The defining feature of the IRST21 is its passive nature. Because it does not emit signals, the system is immune to traditional jamming techniques and cannot be easily detected by enemy forces. This stealthy capability gives pilots more time to react in critical situations, improving survivability and mission success rates. In an era where electronic warfare is becoming increasingly sophisticated, such resilience is indispensable.

Strategic Implications for U.S. Air Power

The awarding of this contract underscores the U.S. military’s commitment to modernizing its air combat capabilities. By equipping fourth-generation fighters with advanced detection and targeting systems, the United States ensures that its existing fleet remains competitive against emerging threats. The IRST21 Block II effectively bridges the gap between current aircraft and future sixth-generation platforms, reinforcing America’s strategic edge in contested airspaces.

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