Lockheed wins $270 million USAF contract for F-22 infrared sensor upgrade
The F-22A Raptor aircraft is currently undergoing upgrades to boost its in-service life. (Photo: USAF)
Tactical Infrared Search and Track (TacIRST) sensors will be installed to boost the fighter’s survivability and lethality.
Lockheed Martin has won a US$270 million contract from the US Air Force (USAF) to integrate a system of next-generation infrared defensive sensors onto the F-22 Raptor.
The Tactical Infrared Search and Track (TacIRST) sensors, also known as the Infrared Defensive System (IRDS), are an integrated solution developed by Lockheed. According to the company, they work to detect airborne threats with greater precision, as well as enhance the aircraft’s survivability and lethality.
Lockheed will also reportedly support the integration of this technology on other platforms. As of 2022, it was already deployed on F-5 Tiger jets who tested the TacIRST.
Related Articles
RTX Raytheon wins billion-dollar contract for F-22 sensors
Hank Tucker, VP of missions systems at Lockheed Martin, said: “We understand the need for advanced and versatile infrared systems like IRDS that will make pilots’ missions more survivable and lethal against current and future adversaries.
“We’re committed to supporting the Air Force through continuous innovation of capabilities to deter and defeat evolving threats.”
This contract joins a wider set of upgrades for the USAF’s F-22 Raptor aircraft to extend its service life. In September 2024, RTX was awarded a US$1 billion contract to upgrade the F-22’s sensors on 154 of its aircraft.
The F-22A Raptor is a fifth-generation stealth, air superiority fighter. With these future upgrades, it is expected to be in service with the USAF until the mid-2050s.
Related Equipment in Defence Insight
More from Air Warfare
-
![Attack drones versus CUAS – the future of warfare or just another trend?]()
Attack drones versus CUAS – the future of warfare or just another trend?
Demand signals for counter-drone technology are strong and the market is becoming crowded, but is this really the beginning of a new phase of warfare or will commentators be talking about something else 10 years from now?
-
![The 2020s: a decade of UAV spending growth]()
The 2020s: a decade of UAV spending growth
Total annual drone spending has increased nearly sixfold since the start of the decade, from $2.9 billion in 2020 to $16.3 billion in 2028, with Europe leading the rise.
-
![July drone digest: Sovereign production takes centre stage at Farnborough]()
July drone digest: Sovereign production takes centre stage at Farnborough
Farnborough International Airshow (FIA) 2026 revealed the growing scale of the UK’s uncrewed ambitions, with companies showcasing new CCA, autonomous wingmen and surveillance drones, while sovereign production emerged as a key factor for multiple programmes.
-
![July air forces review: Farnborough steals the headlines as programmes develop]()
July air forces review: Farnborough steals the headlines as programmes develop
The biannual Farnborough International Airshow 2026 was the backdrop in July for scores of deals, partnerships and announcements, including developments in the multinational next-generation Global Combat Air Programme and the UK’s $486 million trainer aircraft requirement.
-
![FIA 2026: Bell highlights MOSA-driven growth path for MV-75 Cheyenne]()
FIA 2026: Bell highlights MOSA-driven growth path for MV-75 Cheyenne
Bell Flight’s modular open-systems approach for the US Army’s MV-75 Cheyenne could open doors for international allies and suppliers once locked out by closed rotorcraft architectures.
