As part of ongoing efforts to upgrade its carrier-based aviation capabilities, the United States Navy (US Navy) has awarded Lockheed Martin a contract worth USD 233 million for the provision of IRST21 Block II systems, which will be integrated into F/A-18 Super Hornet fighters. The agreement, confirmed on October 20, 2025, will enable the delivery of new batches of this passive infrared search and track (IRST) sensor, consolidating its operational deployment after having reached Initial Operational Capability (IOC) earlier this year.
Background information on the program indicates that in February 2025, the U.S. Navy declared the Initial Operational Capability of the IRST Block II after completing integration and validation tests with East Coast units. According to the reports at the time, the system proved effective in detecting stealth aircraft and creating a “passive air picture” that complements the Super Hornet’s AESA radar.
The integration of the IRST21 Block II addresses the Navy’s need to maintain air superiority in contested environments, where potential adversaries deploy low radar signature aircraft and advanced electronic warfare systems. By operating passively, the IRST enables pilots to locate and track targets without revealing their own position, enhancing survivability and tactical surprise in combat.
According to information released by Lockheed Martin, this contract secures full-rate production of the Block II, allowing the U.S. Navy to equip an increasing number of squadrons with this capability. The system offers significant improvements over the first version, including greater detection range, improved target discrimination in congested environments, and enhanced resistance to electronic countermeasures.
About the IRST21 Block II:
Officially designated as the ASG-34A(V)1, the IRST21 Block II is the latest version of the Infrared Search and Track (IRST) system developed by Lockheed Martin for the U.S. Navy’s Super Hornet fighters. It is mounted in the forward section of the centerline fuel tank that equips the F/A-18E/F.
Among its key features, the ASG-34A(V)1 is designed to integrate with and complement the Super Hornet’s AN/APG-79 fire control radar, enhancing situational awareness in highly contested environments. It also provides passive fire control capabilities to search, detect, track, and engage airborne targets, operating autonomously or in conjunction with other sensors. Additionally, it supports the guidance of both short-range air-to-air missiles, such as the AIM-9X Sidewinder Block II, and beyond-visual-range weapons, like the AIM-120 AMRAAM.
Images used for illustrative purposes.
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