$7.8M for Predator LADAR R&D Morphs Into RAIDER Turret (updated)

“Target acquired.” DID has covered the potential capabilities and value of LIDAR/LADAR in June 2005, including its ability to see through cover and create 3-D pictures; UAV LIDAR research has also extended to maritime UAVs. Especially astute readers might also recall our coverage of Lockheed’s September 2005 merger with LIDAR specialist Coherent Technologies, in order to create a laser radar center of excellence. Those trends came together in May 2006, and the PILR R&D award has now morphed into a new surveillance turret from Lockheed that could give them a real edge in the electro-optical market for UAV, helicopter, and aircraft systems. MQ-1 Predator(click to view full) A May 24, 2006 DefenseLINK announcement noted that Lockheed Martin Corp. in Grand Prairie, TX had received a $7.8 million cost-plus-fixed-fee contract modification for the Predator Imaging Laser Radar (PILR) program, which demonstrates a 3-dimensional imaging laser radar sensor. Work will be complete by May 2009. The Air Force Research Laboratory, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, OH issued the contract (F33615-01-C-1419/P00010). The program was intended to demonstrate that a LIDAR sensor can be produced in a size and weight that’s compatible with a UAV, while maintaining sensor performance that meets mission requirements for a […]