Raytheon Systems, Marconi Electronic Systems and Fairchild Controls have teamed to develop a third-generation targeting system for fast-jet precision strike aircraft. Named Terminator, it is based on new infrared sensors and advanced laser technology.

Terminator also incorporates state-of-the-art processing electronics and is designed for two-level maintenance. Raytheon claims that it has two-thirds fewer parts than first-generation systems, that it will be three times more reliable-and cost half as much.

The key to Terminator's performance is staring mid-wave infrared technology, based on large focal plane arrays. Raytheon is developing a family of systems based on these sensors, and has already sold systems for the V-22 Osprey, the Royal Australian Navy's SH-2G and the Teledyne Ryan RQ-4 Global Hawk. The company is also developing the Advanced Targeting FLIR pod for the U.S. Navy's Boeing F/A-18.

Terminator will compete on the world market with Lockheed Martin's LANTIRN 2000, announced last year. The new-generation systems can be used to identify and designate targets for laser-guided bombs or other weapons at much greater slant ranges than today's pods, keeping the aircraft clear of defensive fire.

By Bill Sweetman