Lockheed Martin has been awarded a $13.8 million contract by the Marine Corps Systems Command to provide post-production support for its tactical missile defense radar systems that supported both Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Under the contract, Lockheed Martin will provide new electronics, including transmitters, receivers and power supplies, to upgrade five AN/TPS-59(V)3 radar systems and spares. In addition to the initial upgrades, the contract includes options that bring the potential value of the contract up to $27.7 million.

"We are very pleased to have an opportunity to enhance the capabilities of radars that are being used in the fight against terrorism at sites around the world," said Dr. Dennis Beres, vice president, airborne and land-based radars at Lockheed Martin's business in Syracuse.

The current AN/TPS-59(V)3, manufactured by Lockheed Martin, is the only mobile radar in the world certified to detect tactical ballistic missiles. It can precisely predict missile launch and impact points, and cue defensive weapons against incoming threats. The radar can detect both single and multiple targets, and detect and track small air breathing targets such as aircraft. It is designed to operate with weapons systems such as HAWK and Patriot missile defense systems.

The all-solid state AN/TPS-59(V)3 can be integrated with other sensors for improved launch and impact point prediction, extended range capabilities, cooperative engagement and joint tactical information distribution. The radar's 740-kilometer (400 nautical miles) range exceeds the range of 90 percent of the tactical ballistic missiles in the world today, and its mobility allows it to be forward-based to further extend the range of the system.

Lockheed Martin is a world leader in systems integration and the development of air and missile defense systems and technologies, including the first operational hit-to-kill missile defense system. It also has considerable experience in missile design and production, infrared seekers, command and control, battle management, and communications, precision pointing and tracking optics, as well as radar and signal processing. The company makes significant contributions to all major U.S. missile defense systems and participates in several global missile defense partnerships.

Headquartered in Bethesda, MD, Lockheed Martin employs about 130,000 people worldwide and is principally engaged in the research, design, development, manufacture and integration of advanced technology systems, products and services.

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http://www.lockheedmartin.com/ms2

SOURCE: Lockheed Martin Maritime Systems & Sensors