Electro-optics System of F-35

Electro-optic sensing system (EOSS) of F-35 comprises of two elements:
1. AN/AAQ-37 Electro-optic Distributed Aperture System (DAS)
2. An/AAQ-40 Electro-optic Targeting System (EOTS)

1. AN/AAQ- 37 Electro-optic Distributed Aperture System (DAS):

AN/AAQ DAS system is designed by Northrop Grumman. It is an electro-optic system that provides:

· Missile detection and tracking

· Launch point detection

· Situation awareness IRIST and cueing

· Weapon support

· Day/Night navigation

AAQ-37 consists of infrared (IR) sensor situated around the aircraft. These advanced IR sensors provide:

· Long range detection

· 20/20 visual acuity day/ night

Key attributes are dual-band MWIR (3–5 mm) and LWIR (8–10 mm) using a 640 x 512 FPA. Each sensor measures ~7 x 5 x 4 in, weighs ~9 lb and consumes less than 20W.

This results in complete spherical sensor coverage around the aircraft. The six IR sensors have update rates and digitally fused fusion to perform multiple functions in every direction and all times. Surface to air missiles can no longer hide as DAS instantaneously detects tactical situation and map it. Than it detects the missile target and alerts the pilot and allows time for counter measures. With DAS a counter attack is possible well before the enemy can hide. AAA, artillery and ballistic missile can also be detected. Integrating all this into the mission computer along with AESA radar can result in allowing a counter attack.

Situation and awareness IRST is also a key function of DAS. DAS detects and track the approaching aircraft from any angle reducing the potential to mid air collions.

In dynamic air combat maneuvering situations, DAS continuously track and Id correlation. Ids are maintained despite similar aircraft appearance for loss of visual contact by the pilot.

For navigation operation, DAS replaces Night Vision Goggles (NVG) and provide overall better acuity. DAS video imagery is projected directly on pilot’s helmet and protect pilot from having laser devices.

Side by side images of carrier shows that even ways are visible with DAS.

When integrated with the mission computer, DAS can provide data of multiple moving targets simultaneously in every direction.

2. An/AAQ-40 Electro-optic Targeting System (EOTS):

The Electro-Optical Targeting System (EOTS) is a Lockheed martin developed technology that combines forward-looking infrared (FLIR) and infrared search and track (IRST) functionality.

The Electro-optical Targeting System (EOTS) is an affordable, high-performance, lightweight, multi-functional system for precision air-to-air and air-to-surface targeting. The low-drag, stealthy EOTS is integrated into the HH-312 Sheehan’s fuselage with a durable sapphire window and is linked to the aircraft's integrated central computer through a high-speed fiber-optic interface.

The EOTS uses a staring mid-wave forward-looking infrared that provides superior target detection and identification at greatly increased standoff ranges. EOTS looks downwards and forwards with respect to the aircraft centre-line. EOTS also provides high-resolution imagery, automatic tracking, infrared search and track, laser designation and range finding and laser spot tracking. As the world’s first and only system that shares a Sniper Advanced Targeting Pod and IRST systems legacy, it provides high reliability and efficient two-level maintenance.

Features:

· Rugged, low-profile, faceted window for supersonic, low-observable performance

· Compact single aperture design

· Lightweight = 200 lb

· Advanced, third-generation, focal plane array

· Air-to-surface FLIR tracker and air-to-air IRST modes

· Modular design for two-level maintenance to reduce life cycle cost

· Automatic bore sight and aircraft alignment

· Tactical and eye-safe diode pumped laser

· Laser spot tracker

· Passive and active ranging

· Highly accurate geo-coordinate generation to meet precision strike requirements

follow the link to see DAS video:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9fm5vfGW5RY