Advanced targeting technology enables efficient tactical engagements while reducing fratricide and collateral damage

Sep 9, 2013 ASDNews Source : BAE Systems PLC

    New Integrated Targeting Device will support U.S. forces as part of DARPAaEUR(tm)s Persistent Close Air Support program

BAE Systems will lead the development of an advanced technology that seeks to detect and identify targets at tactically significant ranges, providing accurate location of long-range targets for weapons engagement. This technology is intended to enable U.S. ground forces to execute air-ground missions close to friendly forces, more quickly and accurately.

The new Integrated Targeting Device (ITD) will be designed as a lightweight, handheld day-and-night system that will support the Persistent Close Air Support (PCAS) program. It will allow Joint Tactical Air Controllers (JTACs) on the ground to simultaneously visualize, select, and employ weapons against multiple moving targets in a specified area.  At the same time, the JTACs will be able to digitally task close air support assets to engage with enemy targets. The device will provide either GPS coordinates or laser guidance for targeting to enable faster mission implementation by U.S. ground forces, while reducing collateral damage and potential fratricide.

"BAE Systems’ expertise and significant investment in advanced electro-optic and packaging technology is evident in our approach to the ITD, allowing us to achieve the program’s challenging size and performance goals," said Mark Meisner, PCAS technical adviser for BAE Systems. "Through the PCAS program, we are continuing to innovate sensors, lasers, optics, and human factors that open the door to an entirely new set of mission capabilities for the warfighter."

Raytheon Missile Systems selected BAE Systems to develop the ITD under a contract with the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) to support the PCAS program. The ITD will be integrated with a handheld tablet computer to help the warfighter visualize, select, and employ weapons as needed. The system will initially be demonstrated with the A-10 Warthog.