Northrop Grumman and Selex Combine To Offer IRST Pod
The partners are eyeing a U.S. Air Force requirement that would equip F-15 fighter with a new air-air detection capability.
Northrop Grumman is developing an Open Pod with modular front and rear sections. This version is for IRST, in cooperation with Selex ES. (Photo: Northrop Grumman)
Northrop Grumman is developing an Open Pod with modular front and rear sections. This version is for IRST, in cooperation with Selex ES. (Photo: Northrop Grumman)

At the AFA Conference last week, Northrop Grumman (NG) and Selex ES revealed details of the InfraRed Search and Track (IRST) pod that they are proposing to meet a new U.S. Air Force requirement. The transatlantic partnership is building on NG’s new concept of an Open Pod that can be adapted for various tasks, including communications, electronic warfare and targeting. NG previously partnered with Rafael to produce Litening targeting pods for the U.S. military, but the company also pointed to a long association with Selex ES, including the Directed InfraRed CounterMeasures (DIRCM) system, and the laser for the Litening pod.