U.S. Air Force Fact Sheet

SNIPER ADVANCED TARGETING POD

Mission

Sniper Advanced Targeting Pod is a longrange precision targeting system that

supports the precision strike mission. It

provides positive target identification,

autonomous tracking, coordinate generation,

and precise weapons guidance from

extended standoff ranges.

Features

The Sniper ATP is a single, lightweight pod

with much lower aerodynamic drag than the

legacy systems it replaces. The Sniper possesses advanced targeting technology and its image

processing allows aircrews to detect and identify tactical-size targets outside threat rings for the

destruction of enemy air defense mission, as well as outside jet noise ranges for urban counterinsurgency operations. It offers a 3-5 times increase in detection range over the legacy

LANTIRN system. It has been successfully integrated on a variety of aircraft to include the F15E, the F-16 Block 30/40/50, and the A-10. Sniper ATP is also being integrated on the B-1.

Sniper ATP incorporates a multi-spectral sensor capability with a high-resolution, mid-wave

third-generation FLIR and a CCD-TV. Advanced sensors, combined with advanced image

processing algorithms and rock-steady stabilization produce target identification ranges that

permit operations minimizing exposure to many threat systems. The dual-mode laser offers an

eye safe mode for urban combat and training operations, along with a laser-guided bomb

designation laser for guiding in these precision munitions.

For target coordination with ground and air forces, a laser spot tracker, a laser marker, and a TV

quality video down link which is currently in flight test to joint terminal air controllers improve

rapid target detection/ identification. Sniper ATP provides high-resolution imagery highly sought

after for the non-traditional intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance mission. Sniper ATP

is being used in Operation Iraqi Freedom on F-15Es and F-16s.

For ease of maintenance, Sniper ATP's revolutionary optical bed design, optimal partitioning,

and diagnostic capabilities permit true two-level maintenance, eliminating costly intermediatelevel support. Automated built-in test permits a flightline maintainer to isolate and replace an

LRU in under 20 minutes to get the pod back up to full mission capable status. Spares are

ordered through a user-friendly website offering in-transit visibility to parts shipment.

Background

In August 2001, the U.S. Air Force announced Lockheed Martin's Sniper as the winner of the

ATP competition. The contract provides for pods and associated equipment, spares, and

support of the F-16 and F-15E aircraft for the total force, active-duty Air Force and Air National

Guard. Follow-on acquisitions are expected for the A-10 and B-1.

General Characteristics

Primary Function: Positive identification, automatic tracking and laser designation

Prime Contractor: Lockheed Martin

Length: 94 inches (239 centimeters)

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Diameter: 11.9 inches (30 centimeters)

Weight: 440 pounds (199 kilograms)

Aircraft: F-15E, F-16 Block 30/40/50, A-10, B-1

Sensors: Mid-wave third generation FLIR, dual mode eye-safe, laser designator, CCD-TV,

laser spot tracker and laser marker

Date Deployed: January 2005

Inventory: Not available.

Point of Contact

Air Combat Command, Public Affairs Office; 130 Andrews St., Suite 202; Langley AFB, VA

23665-1987; DSN 574-5007 or (757) 764-5007; e-mail: accpa.operations@langley.af.mil

August 2007

Air Force Link - Fact Sheet (Printable) : SNIPER ADVANCED TARGETING POD Page 2 of 2

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