Lockheed Martin received a $245 million contract to produce 48 IRST Block II infrared search-and-track pods for U.S. and Australian Super Hornet fighters, with full funding committed at signing and delivery scheduled for February 2031.
What's happening
- Lockheed Martin awarded $245 million contract for 48 IRST Block II pods for F/A-18E/F Super Hornets on September 29, 2026.
- Contract includes 45 pods for the U.S. Navy and 3 pods for Australia via Foreign Military Sales, with $11 million of the total from Australia.
- Funding fully committed at contract signing; completion targeted for February 2031.
- Block II configuration features modified electro-optical sensor head, new central processor and updated software; production pods entered service in 2025.
Why it matters
- IRST pods supplement Super Hornet onboard radar and provide passive target detection capability, enabling fourth-generation fighters to search for fifth-generation aircraft without emitting radar signals.
- Strengthens U.S. Navy carrier strike group air defense and situational awareness across 48 aircraft, extending operational life of fourth-gen platform against evolving threats.
- Australian purchase through FMS deepens interoperability with allied air forces and locks in joint logistics and training requirements for Block II systems.
Financial impact
- Revenue of $245 million will be recognized over the contract performance period from 2026 to February 2031, likely in quarterly installments tied to delivery milestones.
- Full funding committed at signing provides cash certainty and reduces working capital risk across the 5-year production run.
- Contract backlog increases by $245 million as of Q4 2026.
The fine print
- Contract includes spare parts and diagnostic equipment alongside the 48 production pods, scope not itemized separately.
- Ceiling value and obligated funds are not distinguished in available contract documentation.
Source: defence-industry.eu · Oct 3, 2026 · Drafted with Claude, reviewed by Industrial Base Alpha.