US Marine Corps awards contract for next-generation handheld targeting system

News, US February 26, 2023 , by IRIA No Comments

The U.S. Marine Corps awarded defense manufacturer Northrop Grumman the initial production and operations contract for the Next Generation Handheld Targeting System (NGHTS).

NGHTS is a compact and durable targeting system that weighs less than 10 pounds and provides advanced precision targeting. According to the Northrop Grumman statement, the system is capable of operation in GPS-denied environments and will be “tested under extreme conditions of temperature, vibration, salt-fog, and altitude”.

The Northrop Grumman statement highlighted that the NGHTS performs rapid target acquisition, laser terminal guidance operation, and laser spot imaging functions using its advanced range finder and designator.

“With NGHTS, ground forces have the option to call in a target, transmit the precise location or use laser designation where previously the only option was to call in target coordinates on a field radio. This single, ergonomic handheld product packed with advanced targeting capabilities will enable the Marines to quickly acquire and perform guidance against targets and generate target location data during combat operations,” it added

Vice president of navigation, targeting, and survivability at Northrop Grumman, Bob Gough said, “NGHTS’ advanced technology will significantly enhance warfighters’ ability to safely complete their missions”.

Gough further added that “NGHTS is lightweight and combines four systems into one portable device with state-of-the-art imaging, targeting, ranging, designating, and networking. This compact, multi-sensor electro-optical/infrared device lightens Marines’ loads and keeps them connected while adding precision and safety to their missions.”

*^{NGHTS is a laser-based device that provides the Marines with an enhanced capability to identify and designate targets from extended ranges. (Image Credit: Northrop Grumman)}*

Earlier the vice president of navigation, targeting, and survivability said that “NGHTS will significantly enhance the ability of Marines to identify ground targets under a wide range of conditions. Connected to military networks, NGHTS can provide superior situational awareness and accurate coordinates for the delivery of effects from beyond the line of sight.”

According to the Northrop Grumman statement, “NGHTS features three sensors: a color day imager, a low-light imager, and a thermal imager for creating images in total darkness.” The system includes a high-precision GPS receiver and a celestial compass that provides azimuth readings (the angular measurement in a spherical coordinate system) for a target’s heading relative to NGHTS to within fractions of a degree. NGHTS allows for further targeting ranges than current legacy systems, the statement added.

Northrop Grumman designed various parts for NGHTS that can be 3D printed in the field rather sending them elsewhere for repair. The company said in a statement that “NGHTS provides superior observation from even the most environmentally and physically onerous locations. During twilight, one of the most challenging times of day to see targets, the streamlined Graphical User Interface (GUI) provides a sharp and clear image. This improved user experience allows the warfighter to conduct accurate target location and laser guidance during combat operations no matter the conditions.”