Northrop Grumman has announced the successful demonstration of the company’s new Target Location Module (TLM), a key component of the battle-proven, man-portable Lightweight Laser Designator Rangefinder High Accuracy (LLDR 2H).
LLDR 2H allows troops to perform surveillance, identify and engage threats at safe distances, accurately position troops, and engage enemies while limiting collateral damage and protecting troops being transported within hostile areas.
In support of the Stockpile Reliability Test program at White Sands Missile Range, N.M., Northrop Grumman demonstrated the LLDR 2H by successfully acquiring the locations of two separate tank-size targets from extended ranges from the observation post.
The targeting module reported grids commensurate with accuracies required for GPS guided munitions. The two Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS) missiles used the location data to score direct hits on both targets, demonstrating the high accuracy of the TLM.
“Bringing this capability to the warfighter will address a technology gap that exists today within the U.S. Army,” said Gordon Stewart, vice president and general manager of the laser systems business unit.
“Our hybrid sensor solution fuses data from a digital magnetic compass and celestial navigation sensors to provide highly accurate azimuth solutions supporting precise target location. The TLM delivers a near instant-on azimuth solution, is not susceptible to magnetic anomalies and requires no calibration.”
Operating under the terms of a indefinite delivery, indefinite quantity contract with a not-to-exceed value of $661 million, Northrop Grumman will commence production deliveries of the LLDR 2H in August 2012 and will continue through June 2013.
