Lockheed Martin picks EDO for sensor system

EDO Corp. won a $9.9 million contract from Lockheed Martin Corp. to develop an enhanced electronic support measures (ESM) sensor system for the Navy's P-3C Orion maritime surveillance aircraft.

Bethesda, Md.-based Lockheed Martin awarded the contract to EDO's Reconnaissance and Surveillance Systems business unit in Morgan Hill, Calif. The unit designs and manufactures ESM integrated systems and related technology, including receivers, signal processors, digitizers and signal-analysis software.

The new ALR-95(V)3 sensor system will be based on a receiver with digital, instantaneous frequency measurement capability.

According to New York-based EDO, this technology will improve the P-3C's performance in dense and threatening electronic environments. It will be effective against modern frequency-agile radars, and improve signal identification and accuracy in locating the emitter of interest, the company said.

EDO provides military products and professional services to the federal government and its prime defense contractors. The company develops systems and subsystems for long-term military platforms, such as the B-1B bomber, the F/A-22, the Joint Strike Fighter and the Comanche helicopter.

With 2002 revenue of $328.9 million, EDO is ranked No.76 on Washington Technology's 2003 Top 100 list, which measures federal contracting revenue. Lockheed Martin, with 2002 revenue of $26.6 billion, is ranked No.1.