Army to get more aerostat threat detection systems

Lockheed Martin Corp. will provide the Army with additional airborne platforms that provide around-the-clock surveillance and detection capabilities under a $133 million contract award.

Under the contract, the company will supply the Army with eight more Persistent Threat Detection Systems (PTDS) to support U.S. and coalition forces deployed overseas, company officials said today. Nine systems are already deployed, and the additional systems will be delivered to the military during the next 11 months, the officials said.

PTDS is an aerostat-based system outfitted with multi-mission sensors that furnish low-cost, long-endurance surveillance, intelligence, reconnaissance and communications capabilities. The helium-filled system outfitted with surveillance gear and equipment resembles a small airship tethered in place. Army units are able to reposition the system by using a mobile mooring system.

The Army also deploys intelligence, reconnaissance and surveillance sensors on towers for situational awareness and force protection.

Lockheed Martin, of Bethesda, Md., ranks No. 1 on Washington Technology's 2009 Top 100 list of the largest federal government prime contractors.