Lockheed Martin to redefine air combat superiority with U.S. Air Force F-22 infrared sensor overhaul

Global defense technology company Lockheed Martin has received a $270 million contract from the U.S. Air Force to integrate next-generation infrared defensive sensors into the F-22 Raptor.

The contract was confirmed on January 22, 2025, and will see the installation of the Infrared Defensive System (IRDS) on the U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor.

The new system will enhance the survivability and lethality of the aircraft in air-to-air and air-to-ground combat scenarios.

Versatility of the infrared defensive system

Notably the infrared system will boost the aircraft’s ability to detect and counter threats in severe environments, including near-peer adversaries and evolving missile technologies.

These installed sensors offer extensive infrared capabilities, allowing the aircraft to identify and neutralize threats more effectively and efficiently.

Apart from the F-22, Lockheed Martin will support the incorporation of IRDS across other platforms, highlighting the system’s versatility.

The vice president of Mission Systems at Lockheed Martin, Hank Tucaker, highlighted the necessity for advanced, versatile infrared systems like the IRDS to ensure that the F-22 remains effective against current and emerging adversaries, particularly those using advanced countermeasures.

Lockheed Martin commits to air superiority

Furthermore, vice president of the F-22 program at Lockheed Martin, Justin Taylor, reiterated the company’s continuous dedication to preserving air superiority.

He highlighted Lockheed Martin’s pride in continuing its collaboration with the Air Force to modernize the Raptor.

The company’s expertise depends on its 5^th-Generation aircraft and air dominance systems to integrate capabilities that ensure the continued dominance of U.S. airpower now and in the future.

This contract reflects the Air Force’s focus on equipping its fleet with advanced technologies to sustain operational effectiveness in highly challenging environments.

The IRDS integration marks a key milestone in the modernization of the F-22, an important component of the U.S. Air Force’s tactical airpower and national defense strategy.

This isn’t the first time Lockheed Martin is working with the U.S. forces. Last year, the company announced it will help to launch the U.S. Space Force’s first Next-Generation Overhead Persistent Infrared (Next-Gen OPIR) satellite in 2025.