DRS Technologies receives US Army contract for second-generation IR sighting systems

FEBRUARY 28--DRS Technologies Inc. (Parsippany, NJ; www.drs.com) has received a $28 million multiyear contract from the US Army, valued at $155 million including options.
For this award, the company will provide Horizontal Technology Integration Second Generation Forward Looking Infrared (HTI SGF) sighting systems. These systems provide critical common night-vision technology to the US Army's Abrams Main Battle Tank M1A2 SEP (System Enhancement Package), Bradley Fighting Vehicle System M2A3, and Long-Range Advanced Scout Surveillance System (LRAS3).

For this contract, the company will provide B-Kit sensors, spares, and testing for the HTI SGF program. The contract was awarded by the US Army Communications-Electronics Command in Fort Monmouth, NJ. Work associated with this award will be accomplished by the company's DRS Optronics unit in Palm Bay, FL, with product deliveries expected to conclude in December 2005.

The HTI SGF system enhances the engagement and surveillance ranges for the identification of threats, increases target acquisitions, and significantly reduces fratricide. Providing the most advanced, high-resolution sighting technology available today for the success of ground combat operations, HTI SGF allows ground vehicles to detect, identify, and engage tactical targets during the day or night. The system contributes to information dominance by providing digital battlefield imagery to commanders who are empowered to promote interoperability among military platforms.

HTI SGF is comprised of a common electronics unit and optomechanical assemblies known as the B-Kit. The B-Kit is incorporated in the Bradley M2A3 Improved Acquisition System sight of the Bradley Fighting Vehicle System M2A3. The Abrams M1A2 SEP utilizes the same B-Kit within a thermal receiving unit and a biocular image control unit for the upgraded thermal imaging system, which is mounted in the gunner's sight.