Lockheed Martin [NYSE: LMT] recently began early delivery of Target Sight System (TSS) follow-on production units for the U.S. Marine Corps’ AH-1Z Cobra attack helicopter. The TSS units feature upgraded software to provide additional targeting capabilities.

TSS is the multi-sensor fire control system for the AH-1Z, integrating state-of-the-art sensors to provide pilots with enhanced capabilities to acquire, track and designate targets. The highly stabilized sensor suite includes a laser designator, color video display and a third-generation, mid-wave, forward-looking infrared sensor with advanced image processing.

“The TSS team has been working diligently to assure the AH-1Z Cobra is one of the most effective attack helicopters to counter today’s battlefield threats,” said Joseph Butera, TSS senior program manager at Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control. “The team ensured that the squadron had the hardware they needed when they needed it, and the sensors performed flawlessly during testing.”

The integration of the TSS with the AH-1Z Cobra fire control system gives pilots the capability to detect and identify targets before they fly into the range of the threat, ensuring increased standoff range and precise target engagements in every climate and location.

Lockheed Martin delivered the first follow-on production unit two months ahead of schedule. Early integration of upgraded system software provides enhancements based on flight test results and user feedback. Additional targeting capabilities include a new target sizing function, refined geo-location accuracy and superior weapon alignment. The Cobra attack helicopter achieved initial operating capability in February 2011.

The Naval Surface Warfare Center awarded the initial TSS production contract in March 2008 and a follow-on production contract in June 2010. The system is produced at Lockheed Martin facilities in Florida. Production is expected to continue through 2018.

Lockheed Martin press release