Leonardo DRS said the sensors would combine advances in detection and processing with an architecture designed for lower-cost production at scale. The Space Force award was made through an Other Transaction Agreement, a contracting mechanism used to accelerate prototype development.
The program links technical performance with manufacturing and supply-chain requirements. Its goals include improving affordability, simplifying production and creating designs that can be scaled to meet demand through a resilient supplier base.
“This award recognizes our innovative best-in-class sensor technology, proven experience and continued investment in space-based capabilities for critical national security programs,” said John Baylouny, President and CEO of Leonardo DRS. “These investments allow our company to push the boundaries of advanced sensing and targeting and implement scaled manufacturing to support national security priorities.”
The award builds on Leonardo DRS’s existing work in electro-optical and infrared technologies for government customers. The company did not provide details about the sensor’s configuration or the duration of the prototype program.
“We are incredibly proud to support this vital space-based mission,” said Jerry Hathaway, senior vice president and general manager, Leonardo DRS Electro-Optical and Infrared Systems. “This award builds upon our current and next-generation affordable sensing technologies developed by our innovative space and sensor engineering teams and leverages our proven performance and expertise in sensor design and manufacturing.”
Leonardo DRS supplies advanced infrared sensors to the U.S. government and allied countries for operations on land, at sea, in the air and in space. Its broader technology portfolio includes secure communications and laser systems used for counter-UAS missions, autonomous maritime fleet protection and mounted and dismounted ground-combat systems.
