The U.S. Navy has approved low-rate initial production of an advanced infrared search and track system for F/A-18 aircraft from Boeing and Lockheed Martin.

The IRST system is composed of the IRST21 sensor of Lockheed Martin, the GE Aviation FPU-13 fuel tank assembly and Meggitt Defense's industry environmental control unit.

The IRST21 is a next-generation long-range sensor that uses infrared search and track technology to detect, track and enable the Super Hornet to engage threats with air-to-air weapons. It also enhances multiple target resolution compared to radar and greater discrimination of threat formations at longer ranges.

"This 'see first, strike first' capability can be used in a variety of threat environments and is a game changer for our warfighters as we combat future adversaries," said U.S. Navy F/A-18 program manager Capt. Frank Morley.

Lockheed Martin said the system is expected to be deployed on F/A-18 aircraft beginning in 2017.