Surveillance Balloon Can Track Those Planting IEDs

January 15, 2013. David Pugliese - Defence Watch

Raytheon has issued this news release:

A recent demonstration proved that operators can observe surface moving targets — including a terrorist role-player planting an improvised explosive device — in real time using a Raytheon Company (NYSE: RTN) MTS-B Multi-Spectral Targeting System mounted on the JLENS.

During the Raytheon-funded demonstration, and despite heavy smoke from recent, naturally-occurring forest fires, an MTS-B electro-optical/infrared (EO/IR) sensor mounted on a JLENS surveillance aerostat tracked numerous targets with the IR sensor. Video from the MTS-B was passed through the aerostat’s tether, enabling operators to watch live feed of trucks, trains and cars from dozens of miles away. While the MTS-B visually tracked targets, the JLENS simultaneously tracked surface targets with its integrated radar system, demonstrating the potential to integrate the JLENS radar and EO/IR payloads.

As part of the demonstration, operators also used the MTS-B’s EO sensor to watch Raytheon employees simulate planting a roadside improvised explosive device.

“The JLENS integrated fire-control radar and 360-degree surveillance radar already gives the warfighter the capability to detect and engage surface and airborne threats like swarming boats and anti-ship cruise missiles,” said Dave Gulla, vice president of Global Integrated Sensors for Raytheon’s Integrated Defense Systems business. “Integrating the proven MTS-B on JLENS makes JLENS multi-mission capable and enables the warfighter to better defend the battlespace and protect critical infrastructure and waterways.”