U.S. Space Force taps Leonardo DRS for sensor technology

Leonardo DRS has won an Other Transaction Agreement contract from the U.S. Space Force to further develop sensor technology intended to support space superiority and space control missions, the company said Tuesday.

Under the award, Leonardo DRS will continue developing sensor technology designed to detect, identify, track and target fast-moving threats in challenging conditions. The company did not disclose the contract’s value or a completion timeline.

A central focus of the program is affordability and manufacturability, according to Leonardo DRS. The company said the work builds on advances in sensing and processing technology, aiming toward designs that can be manufactured more efficiently, scaled to meet demand, and supported by a resilient supply chain.

“This award recognizes our innovative best-in-class sensor technology, proven experience and continued investment in space-based capabilities for critical national security programs,” said John Baylouny, President and CEO of Leonardo DRS. “These investments allow our company to push the boundaries of advanced sensing and targeting and implement scaled manufacturing to support national security priorities.”

“We are incredibly proud to support this vital space-based mission,” said Jerry Hathaway, senior vice president and general manager of Leonardo DRS Electro-Optical and Infrared Systems. “This award builds upon our current and next-generation affordable sensing technologies developed by our innovative space and sensor engineering teams and leverages our proven performance and expertise in sensor design and manufacturing.”

Leonardo DRS builds infrared sensing systems used by the U.S. government and allied nations across ground, sea, air and space missions. The company’s broader sensing, secure communications and laser technology portfolio also supports counter-drone systems, autonomous maritime fleet protection, and mounted and dismounted ground combat systems, according to the company.