Lockheed Martin successfully demonstrated a new Extreme Short Range (ESR) mode for its family of SPY-1 naval radars -- a radar family most noted for its unmatched performance detecting and tracking ballistic and supersonic cruise missiles.

This new ESR mode provides an additional layer of ship defense that supports close-in operations, such as helicopter approach control, and enhances small surface target detection and performance in the littorals. The mode was developed as part of the continuing product improvement efforts to the SPY family of radars.

During the recent demonstration of the ESR mode with Norwegian Navy and U.S. Navy participants, the SPY-1F radar successfully tracked a live helicopter test target as it performed a variety of challenging approaches. While operational in ESR mode, the SPY-1 radar continued normal operations, maintaining its traditional high performance in surface, horizon and area surveillance with 360-degree coverage. The test demonstrated the ability for the ESR mode to establish initial detection and acquisition of the test target with seamless transition to steady-state tracking for outbound targets, and seamless transition of the test target tracks from standard mode to ESR mode for inbound targets.

"The SPY-1 was revolutionary when it first went to sea, and proves itself infinitely evolutionary by meeting new mission needs," said Orlando Carvalho, vice president and general manager of Lockheed Martin's Surface-Sea Based Missile Defense line of business. "Our systems engineering approach is the key behind the SPY-1 technology leaps that have expanded the original anti-air warfare role to missions such as defeating ballistic missiles in space and landing a helicopter on a ship."

The SPY-1 radar, the most advanced computer-controlled radar system, is a core component of the Aegis Weapon System. When paired with the MK 41 Vertical Launching System, it is capable of delivering missiles for every mission and threat environment in naval warfare. The Aegis Weapon System is currently deployed on 85 ships around the globe with more than 20 additional ships contracted or planned. In addition to the United States and Norway, Aegis is the weapon system of choice for Australia, Japan, Korea and Spain.

Headquartered in Bethesda, MD, Lockheed Martin employs more than 140,000 people worldwide and is principally engaged in the research, design, development, manufacture, integration and sustainment of advanced technology systems, products and services.

For additional information on Lockheed Martin Corporation, visit:

http://www.lockheedmartin.com/

SOURCE: Lockheed Martin