AN/ASQ-228 ATFLIR
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The AN/ASQ-228 Advanced Targeting Forward-Looking Infrared (ATFLIR) is a multi-sensor, electro-optical targeting pod incorporating infrared, low-light television camera, laser rangefinder/target designator, and laser spot tracker developed and manufactured by Raytheon. It is used to provide navigation and targeting for military aircraft in adverse weather and using precision-guided weapons such as laser-guided bombs. It is intended to replace the earlier AN/AAS-38 Nite Hawk pod in US Navy service.
ATFLIR is 72 in (183 cm) long, weighs 420 lb (191 kg), and has a slant range of 30 mi (48 km), said to be useful at altitude of up to 50,000 ft (15,240 m). It has fewer parts than many previous systems, which is intended to improve serviceability (although early examples, in service with VFA-115 'Eagles' in 2003 experienced problems). Crews indicate that it offers much greater target resolution and image accuracy than previous systems.
ATFLIR presently is used only by the US Navy on the F/A-18E/F Super Hornet, although it is compatible with the earlier F/A-18C/D. It is normally carried on one of the fuselage stations otherwise used for AIM-120 AMRAAM missiles. Current plans call for a total of 574 pods. As of Jan. 2006, Raytheon has delivered 100 pods.
[edit] Competition
The ATFLIR pod faces competition from several other electo-optical system manufacturers. These include:
- Sniper XR: Manufactured by Lockheed Martin for the United States Airforce
- Litening: Manufactured by Northrop Grumman
[edit] External links
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