Dec 20 2010
The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) has entered into a $6.9 million worth deal with Lockheed Martin to produce One Shot laser-based sniper systems. The new systems are more accurate and minimize the possibility of detection.
The snipers available in the market cannot calculate wind at long distances. The One Shot system overcomes this difficulty as it features a camera and laser to measure the velocity and direction of wind within 1.5 km. It also uses sensors to measure the atmospheric surroundings and direct-view optics for improved night vision functionality. These set of features allow snipers to detect targets more precisely in night or day conditions.
The One Shot sniper system comprises a n isolated, lightweight targeting scope and an accessory that projects the accurate spot of impact into the rifle range. The systems produced under the new deal will be utilized for demonstration with the US military services and DARPA.
DARPA signed a $9.7 million, 18-month deal with Lockheed Martin in 2008 to produce the prototype of the One Shot system. During the tactical field experiments conducted in December 2009, snipers were able to hit the targets twice as rapidly and also improved their first round hit probability by a factor of 2/4.
The Aviation Applied Technology Directorate of the Army has recently inked a deal with Lockheed Martin to integrate the One Shot technology into the Autonomous Rotorcraft Sniper System featuring a forceful rifle. The system is generally fixed on a tower or an unmanned helicopter. Lockheed Martin plans to show the improved probability of hitting the target with the Autonomous Rotorcraft Sniper System.