The U.S. Naval Surface Warfare Center has awarded Lockheed Martin a $150.9 million contract for the Target Sight System (TSS) on the AH-1Z Cobra attack helicopter.
The TSS is a large-aperture midwave forward-looking infrared sensor with a laser designator/rangefinder turret.
The system provides the capability to identify and laser-designate targets at maximum weapon range, significantly enhancing platform survivability and lethality.
This contract also includes purchases by the government of Pakistan through the foreign military sales program.
If all options are exercised, the cumulative value of the contract could be brought to $284.6 million.
The AH-1Z attack helicopter provides rotary wing close air support, anti-armor, armed escort, armed/visual reconnaissance and fire support for the U.S. Marine Corps.
The 12,300 lbs (5579 kg) helicopter is equipped with an integrated advanced fire control system and the capacity to support multiple weapons configurations.
Initial operational capability for the AH-1Z, which is replacing the two-bladed AH-1W, was reached in 2011.