Lockheed Martin's AH-1Z Cobra Targeting System Makes First Operational Deployment with the U.S. Marine Corps

Lockheed Martin's Target Sight System (TSS) for the AH-1Z Cobra attack helicopter deployed operationally for the first time with the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) as part of the Amphibious Squadron 5.

Lockheed Martin's TSS is the fire control system for the AH-1Z Cobra. The TSS integrates sensors to provide aviators with superior imagery through a highly stabilized sensor suite that includes a laser designator, color TV camera and third-generation, mid-wave, forward-looking infrared sensor with advanced image processing.

"This first deployment of the AH-1Z Cobra with the 11th MEU expands the presence of the TSS in combat operations," said Joseph Butera, senior program manager of airborne systems in Lockheed Martin's Missiles and Fire Control business. "TSS technology has been combat-proven as the Q-39 fire control system for the U.S. Air Force Special Operations Command AC-130U Gunship and as part of the Harvest HAWK configuration for the KC-130J."

The Naval Surface Warfare Center awarded the initial TSS production contract in March 2008, followed by a second production contract in June 2010. Lockheed Martin delivered the first TSS in June 2009, and recently began early delivery of low-rate initial production units. Production is expected to continue through 2018. TSS is produced at facilities in Ocala and Orlando, Fla.

TSS is one of several high-performance stabilized targeting systems designed, manufactured, tested and supported by Lockheed Martin. The company's fielded solutions for fixed- and rotary-wing aircraft include the Modernized Target Acquisition Designation Sight/Pilot Night Vision Sensor for the U.S. Army, the Sniper Advanced Targeting Pod for the U.S. Air Force and the AN/AAQ-39 targeting system for the U.S. Air Force Special Operations Command.

Headquartered in Bethesda, Md., Lockheed Martin is a global security company that employs about 123,000 people worldwide and is principally engaged in the research, design, development, manufacture, integration and sustainment of advanced technology systems, products and services. The Corporation's net sales for 2011 were $46.5 billion.


Source:  ORLANDO, Fla., 15 February 2012 - Lockheed Martin News

Photo: Lockheed Martin's TSS is the fire control system for the AH-1Z Cobra. (Photo by Shephard Group)

(15.02.2012)