Lockheed Martin completes targeting pod site activation at D-M

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Jake Richmond
  • 355th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
DAVIS-MONTHAN AIR FORCE BASE, Ariz. --  Technicians from Lockheed Martin visited the base earlier this month to for a complete site activation of the Sniper® Advanced Targeting Pod on A-10C aircraft here.

The site activation, which involved pod installation, plus aircrew and maintenance training, was especially significant at D-M; the 354th Fighter Squadron here will be the first A-10 unit to use the Sniper ATP on combat sorties during their deployment later this year.

"The Sniper ATP represents a significant improvement in combat capability," said 354th FS Commander Lt. Col. Michael Millen. "The A-10C has now realized a quantum leap in its ability to locate, identify, track and ultimately defeat targets across the modern battlefield. The A-10C with Sniper ATP is an incredibly lethal combination."

With its video down link capability - compatible with the widely used "Rover" ground receiver - the pod also allows pilots to relay high-resolution streaming video to forward-deployed ground forces, which translates into faster target coordination.

Designed, developed and manufactured by Lockheed Martin, the Sniper ATP provides precision engagement through its high-resolution, mid-wave forward-looking infrared and TV sensors, which operate in conjunction with a dual-mode laser, permitting eye-safe operation and precise geo-location in urban environments.

With its common software and hardware interface, the Sniper pod has sustained advanced integration across U.S. Air Force and multinational aircraft,

"The system is 'plug-and-play' across multiple aircraft platforms," said Mark Fischer, Lockheed Martin business development manager. "For the A-10C, this extends to interoperability on either wing of the aircraft, allowing Airmen greater mission flexibility."

Sniper ATP is currently deployed in combat operations on F-16, F-15E, B-1 and Harrier GR7 and GR9 aircraft.

Coordinated with the Air Force Precision Attack Systems Project Office and Air Combat Command, the Sniper ATP site activation efforts help ensure maintainers are prepared to fully support the system in theater and that aircrews are proficient with pod operations and capabilities. 

"We are continuing to invest and work with the U.S. Air Force on new capabilities to keep the Sniper Advanced Targeting Pod at the leading edge of technology," Mr. Fischer said. "For missions that require precision engagement, Sniper provides an unrivaled capability."