Rockwell Collins Targeting System Completes Flight Test Aboard F-35; Tommy Dodson Comments

Rockwell Collins has completed the ground and live flight testing for its targeting system on board an F-35 aircraft in collaboration with the U.K.’s F-35 office.

The FireStorm integrated targeting system worked to control the aircraft using an air strike mission thread during the tests at Edwards Air Force Base, California, Rockwell Collins said Tuesday.

“The FAC approached the test from a practical standpoint and was able to use the system under simulated tactical conditions,” said Tommy Dodson, vice president and general manager of surface solutions at Rockwell Collins.

“The test was also significant because FireStorm is currently fielded by the British Army, and has now been proven to be interoperable with the F-35,” Dodson added.

The targeting system is designed to provide digital connectivity with coalition aircraft, field artillery systems and command-and-control center battle managers.