F-35 Electro Optical Targeting System (EOTS): Forward Looking Infrared

 

The Electro-Optical Targeting System (EOTS) for the F-35 Lightning II is an affordable, high-performance, lightweight, multi-function system that provides precision air-to-air and air-to-surface targeting capability. The low-drag, stealthy EOTS is integrated into the F-35 Lightning II's fuselage with a durable sapphire window and is linked to the aircraft's integrated central computer through a high-speed fiber-optic interface.

As the first sensor to combine forward-looking infrared and infrared search and track functionality, EOTS enhances F-35 pilots’ situational awareness and allows aircrews to identify areas of interest, perform reconnaissance and precisely deliver laser and GPS-guided weapons. Lockheed Martin has delivered more than 850 systems for the F-35 Lightning II.

Advanced EOTS, an evolutionary electro-optical targeting system, is available for the F-35’s Block 4 development. Designed to replace EOTS, Advanced EOTS incorporates a wide range of enhancements and upgrades, including short-wave infrared, high-definition television, an infrared marker and improved image detector resolution. These enhancements increase F-35 pilots’ recognition and detection ranges, enabling greater overall targeting performance.

 

F-35 Lightning II (EOTS)

Lockheed Martin announced delivery of the 700th Electro-Optical Targeting System (EOTS) for the F-35 Lightning II in September 2020. (Photo by Lockheed Martin)

 

F-35 EOTS in Action   ___
F-35 Lightning II (EOTS)

In September 2020, Lockheed Martin announced it has reduced the sustainment cost per flight hour for the Electro-Optical Targeting System (EOTS) and Distributed Aperture System (DAS) Window Panels for the F-35 Lightning II by 25 percent since the previous year. (Photo by Lockheed Martin) 

F-35 Lightning II (EOTS)

The F-35 Lightning II Electro-Optical Targeting System (EOTS) is an essential component to the F-35’s lethality and survivability. (Photo by Lockheed Martin)

F-35 Lightning II (EOTS)

The F-35 Lightning II Electro-Optical Targeting System (EOTS) supports all F-35 variants, including the F-35B pictured above. (Photo by Lockheed Martin)

Stay Informed: The Latest News on F-35 EOTS   ___
Specialized Window Production Continues to Decrease Cost for F-35 Customers
May 17, 2021
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With the most advanced electronic sensor suite of any fighter jet in history, the F-35 provides 360-degree situational awareness for enhanced threat detection warning and day/night pilot vision. This is made possible by the Distributed Aperture System (DAS) that consists of six infrared cameras around the aircraft.
Electro-Optics Engineer Talks Landing Dream Job
Jan 26, 2021
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In first grade, Billy Maloof had a vision board of what he wanted to be when he grew up. It read: When I become a father, I’ll be just like my dad an army man. My brother will too? I love my brother.
Cost Per Flight Hour Reduced by 25% for F-35 Targeting System
Sep 14, 2020
Story
Considerable work behind the scenes goes into keeping the F-35 in the air and ready to support pilots and their missions. Part of that effort includes decreasing costs of aircraft sustainment. Lockheed Martin has reduced the sustainment cost per flight hour for the Electro-Optical Targeting System (EOTS) and Distributed Aperture System (DAS) Window Panels for the F-35 by 25 percent since last year.
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