Lockheed Martin Demonstrates Two-Way Video Datalink for the Sniper® Advanced Targeting Pod

Lockheed Martin [NYSE: LMT] recently demonstrated a prototype two-way video data link (VDL) for the Sniper® Advanced Targeting Pod (ATP) during a U.S. Air Force Sniper users’ conference at its Missiles and Fire Control facility in Orlando, FL. Sniper ATP provides an unrivaled aerial advantage on the battlefield. Airmen were impressed with the next-generation of VDL capability demonstrated at the event.

The two-way VDL allows forward deployed forces to receive Sniper’s high resolution streaming video and upload annotated images directly back to the Sniper pod. Pilots can review uplinked tactical video on their cockpit displays.

“The imagery is recognized as critical to performing the missions,” said Byron Simpson, technical director of the Sniper ATP program. “The two-way VDL significantly improves communications between ground and air, allowing more accurate and successful missions.”

By supplying video data link ranges typically twice that of any other fielded targeting pod, Sniper ATP produces the most effective VDL available. The VDL provides Sniper ATP’s real-time full resolution streaming video to forward deployed troops using the Rover, a ground receiving station. The VDL is fully integrated with both the Rover and Falcon View, a software application that operates with the Rover.

The Sniper system is also the only ATP providing critical VDL digital metadata to the ground user today. Because of Sniper ATP’s modular design, the VDL is configurable on the flightline in order to meet the mission needs. With this type of design, the Sniper VDL pod can be arranged to support the L, S, C, or Ku frequency bands when the two-way system is fielded.

The Sniper ATP is integrated on the F-15E, F-16 (all blocks), F-18C/D, A-10A+, A-10C, B-1, and Harrier aircrafts. The addition of the two-way production capability is planned for 2008.