Engineers at Lockheed Martin are upgrading the combat-proven Sniper targeting pod, widely used on 4th Generation fighters, into a sophisticated communications and computing node. This transformation supports combined joint all domain command and control.
The F-35's inherent interoperability will be complemented by two enhancements in the new Sniper Networked Targeting Pod. An advanced datalink compatible with the F-35 will allow seamless sharing of target and surveillance data among aircraft. Additionally, a Mobile Ad-hoc Network (MANET) radio will facilitate a secure, decentralized mesh network connecting air, ground, and sea platforms.
The rapid advancement of Sniper is driven by NATO defense forces' demand for closer integration between new F-35s and existing 4th Generation fighters, expected to remain operational for another 40 years. Customers are also seeking continuous target-tracking data from aircraft sensors to enhance ground-based precision strikes on mobile targets.
"To deliver unprecedented interoperability, we've evolved Sniper to do what's never been done before," said Stacy Kubicek, Vice President, Sensors and Global Sustainment, Lockheed Martin. "The Sniper Networked Targeting Pod connects the battlespace, enabling seamless data sharing across platforms and systems-a capability in high demand by U.S. and allied forces and a powerful force multiplier for joint operations."
This investment is part of Lockheed Martin's 21st Century Security vision, aiming to integrate networking and edge computing across customers' aircraft, sensor systems, and weapons.
The enhanced Sniper will enable F-35 fighters and their advanced sensors to serve as forward observers, identifying and tracking targets while sharing precise coordinates with F-16s and ground-based Command and Control Systems. This allows for effective deployment of MLRS family munitions from either HIMARS or M270.
"The F-35 is the aircraft of choice for allies across NATO. By 2035, there will be more than 600 F-35s in the European region," said J.R. McDonald, vice president of F-35 Business Development. "The enhanced capabilities the Sniper targeting pod can bring will serve to further enhance the connectivity and interoperability the F-35 brings to current and future customers."
Lockheed Martin has demonstrated Sniper's interoperability through a series of tests and demonstrations, including recent tests with HIMARS and GMLRS, showcasing its ability to connect air and ground forces in novel ways. The company plans further complex flight testing and live missile shots with the U.S. military.
To expedite Sniper's development and testing, Lockheed Martin engineers have utilized the latest digital technologies, such as simulated missile shots based on real-world inputs from the targeting system.
The decision to upgrade the Sniper pod for communication between 5th and 4th Generation jets is strategic. The "plug-and-play" external pod with a datalink compatible with 5th Generation fighters offers more flexibility than modifying the aircraft itself. The Sniper pod's widespread integration, ease of upgrade, and global trust among air forces make it an optimal choice. Nearly 2,000 Sniper pods have logged over 4 million operational hours worldwide, performing both combat and intelligence missions.
Beyond linking F-35s, F-16s, rocket launchers, and command and control systems, the Sniper Networked Targeting Pod could also enhance other Lockheed Martin systems, including the UK's SkyKeeper air-defense system and the new low-observable hypersonic missile, Mako.
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