American tech company L3Harris Technologies has been selected to provide the shipboard panoramic electro-optic/infrared (SPEIR) system to the US Navy to boost fleet protection.
“The SPEIR program represents a generational leap forward in the use of 360-degree electro-optic and infrared (EO/IR) imagery and situational awareness, elevating EO/IR sensors – the eyes of the fleet – from a dedicated weapons support sensor to a full passive mission solution capability,” according to the company.
Specifically, this new system is targeted for installation on destroyers, carriers, frigates, amphibious and landing helicopter assault ships to provide a critical warfighting capability.
L3Harris will serve as a systems integrator and prime contractor, delivering capabilities for mission areas including anti-ship cruise missile defense, counter-unmanned aerial systems, counter-fast attack craft/fast in-shore attack craft, mobility, anti-terrorism/force protection and operational tasking visual information.
The team includes Lockheed Martin and BAE Systems which will provide an L3Harris A solution known as SPATIAL, which provides a scalable 360-degree EO/IR passive automatic detection and tracking solution, will also be used.
L3Harris will work together with defence contractors BAE Systems and Lockheed Martin.
BAE Systems employs image processing development from combined EO/IR surveillance and response system (CESARS) that provides a fully automated image processing detection capability that reduces operator workload.
“BAE Systems is leveraging our expertise in machine learning and automation capabilities to maritime defense systems,” said Frank Crispino , Director of Active Protection Solutions for BAE Systems.
“The SPEIR program leverages the technologies demonstrated as part of the Office of Naval Research’s Future Naval Capability effort known as CESARS (Combined EO/IR Surveillance and Response System) and a strong heritage of maritime Electro-Optical Sensor Systems combined with L3Harris internal investment to provide a SPEIR capability to the fleet …,” added Sean Stackley , President, Integrated Mission Systems, L3Harris.
“Passive persistent surveillance capability is a significant step forward in protecting the surface fleet, safe navigation and force protection by enabling operations in an emissions-controlled environment.”
On the other hand, Lockheed Martin will bring combat system interface knowledge to ease integration into existing ship systems.
“The SPEIR program builds on Lockheed Martin’s legacy of … integrated combat system and electro-optical sensor solutions for PEO IWS,” said Rick Cordaro , Vice President, Lockheed Martin Advanced Product Solutions.
The initial $205 million contract has a potential value of $593 million if all options are exercised through March 2031.