The Electro-Optical Targeting System (EOTS) for the F-35 Lightning II is an affordable, high-performance, lightweight, multi-function system that provides precision air-to-air and air-to-surface targeting capability. The low-drag, stealthy EOTS is integrated into the F-35 Lightning II's fuselage with a durable sapphire window and is linked to the aircraft's integrated central computer through a high-speed fiber-optic interface.
As the first sensor to combine forward-looking infrared and infrared search and track functionality, EOTS enhances F-35 pilots’ situational awareness and allows aircrews to identify areas of interest, perform reconnaissance and precisely deliver laser and GPS-guided weapons. Lockheed Martin has delivered more than 850 systems for the F-35 Lightning II.
Advanced EOTS, an evolutionary electro-optical targeting system, is available for the F-35’s Block 4 development. Designed to replace EOTS, Advanced EOTS incorporates a wide range of enhancements and upgrades, including short-wave infrared, high-definition television, an infrared marker and improved image detector resolution. These enhancements increase F-35 pilots’ recognition and detection ranges, enabling greater overall targeting performance.
Lockheed Martin announced delivery of the 700th Electro-Optical Targeting System (EOTS) for the F-35 Lightning II in September 2020. (Photo by Lockheed Martin)
In September 2020, Lockheed Martin announced it has reduced the sustainment cost per flight hour for the Electro-Optical Targeting System (EOTS) and Distributed Aperture System (DAS) Window Panels for the F-35 Lightning II by 25 percent since the previous year. (Photo by Lockheed Martin)
The F-35 Lightning II Electro-Optical Targeting System (EOTS) is an essential component to the F-35’s lethality and survivability. (Photo by Lockheed Martin)
