Raytheon was recently awarded a $191 million contract to provide its Multispectral Targeting System for the U.S. Air Force's MQ-9 Reaper. The MTS-B is a multiuse, electro-optical/infrared (EO/IR), laser detecting-ranging-tracking set developed and produced for use in military systems.

Based on a state-of-the-art digital architecture, this advanced EO/IR system provides long-range surveillance, target acquisition, tracking, range-finding and laser designation for the HELLFIRE missile and all tri-service and NATO laser-guided munitions.

"The MTS-B system provides the warfighter superior surveillance capability necessary for making critical operating decisions," said Andy Bonnot, director of Surveillance and Targeting Systems for Raytheon's Space and Airborne Systems business.

"We look forward to continuing to provide technologically advanced solutions to the Air Force for their mission success."

As part of the contract, Raytheon will deliver 149 MTS-B EO/IR imaging systems to the Air Force for the MQ-9 Reaper program.

Deliveries are scheduled to begin in January 2013. The contract also includes support equipment and spares.

The MTS-B is used aboard the U.S. Air Force's MQ-9 Reaper and aircraft operated by Italy, the United Kingdom and U.S. Customs and Border Protection.

The sensor has also been selected for incorporation onboard the U.S. Navy's MQ-4C Broad Area Maritime Surveillance unmanned aircraft fleet.

For more than 10 years, the MTS-B systems have represented an essential intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance asset for the Air Force and have supported its missions in Iraq and Afghanistan.