SALT LAKE CITY, Jan. 14, 2013—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.”
About JLENS
JLENS, an elevated, persistent over-the-horizon sensor system, uses a powerful integrated radar system to detect, track and target a variety of threats. This capability better enables commanders to defend against threats, including hostile cruise missiles; low-flying manned and unmanned aircraft; and moving surface vehicles such as boats, mobile missile launchers, automobiles, trucks and tanks. JLENS also provides ascent phase detection of tactical ballistic missiles and large-caliber rockets.
About MTS-B
The MTS-B is a multiuse, electro-optical/infrared (EO/IR), laser detecting-ranging-tracking set developed and produced for use in military systems. Based on a state-of-the-art digital architecture, this advanced EO/IR system provides long-range surveillance, target acquisition, tracking, range-finding and laser designation for the HELLFIRE missile and all tri-service and NATO laser-guided munitions.
About Raytheon
Raytheon Company, with 2011 sales of $25 billion and 71,000 employees worldwide, is a technology and innovation leader specializing in defense, homeland security and other government markets throughout the world. With a history of innovation spanning 90 years, Raytheon provides state-of-the-art electronics, mission systems integration and other capabilities in the areas of sensing; effects; and command, control, communications and intelligence systems, as well as a broad range of mission support services. Raytheon is headquartered in Waltham, Mass. For more about Raytheon, visit us at www.raytheon.com and follow us on Twitter @raytheon.
