The F-35 models will be equipped with a network of electrical sensors which will give the pilot unsurpassed situational awareness, critical to mission safety. These sensors make up the, “Electro-Optical Distributed Aperture System.” The system will provide early and accurate missile detection and tracking, enhanced field of vision in all conditions, and streamlined firing capabilities. The production of the DAS will be a cooperative between Lockheed Martin who manufactures the F-35 itself and Northrop Grumman who also produce the Lightning II’s AESA radar. According to Northrop Grumman, the DAS will create a 360° “sphere” around the plane of information concerning target movement and the actions of other planes in the formation. With this DAS, the pilot will no longer have to turn his attention away from the mission to update his situational awareness, making his job easier and allowing him to focus solely on the objective.
Tags: Distributed Aperture System, F-35
