The U.S. Navy awarded Lockheed Martin $144.3 million for continued development of the Advanced Deployable System (ADS), a rapidly deployable undersea surveillance system. The work will be performed under an option to a $21 million contract awarded to Lockheed Martin in 2004.

Under the option, Lockheed Martin will provide system engineering, detailed design and program management required to conduct a Detailed Design Review and build a system that will be deployed from a Littoral Combat Ship (LCS) for technical and operational evaluation.

"With ADS, the Joint Maritime Task Force Commander will have the capability to rapidly and flexibly extend the LCS watch area and gain a complete maritime picture," said Chuck Cantello, vice president for Sensors and Advanced Programs with Lockheed Martin Maritime Systems & Sensors. "The execution of this option is a major milestone leading to full deployment of the ADS system."

ADS uses distributed passive acoustic bottom mounted arrays wirelessly linked to an analysis and reporting system to provide continuous acoustic coverage over large areas of the ocean. It is designed to detect and track modern diesel electric and nuclear submarines within the Joint Task Force Commander's battle space, as well as provide capability for tracking surface ships and detecting sea mine laying. The ADS consists of four major subsystems: analysis and reporting system; sensor; tactical interface; and installation support. This variant of the ADS will be designed to be embarked on the LCS and deployed from its deck.

If all options of the ADS contract are exercised, the cumulative value will be $243 million.

Headquartered in Bethesda, MD, Lockheed Martin employs about 135,000 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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SOURCE: Lockheed Martin