The Royal Netherlands Air Force (RNAF) will fit its F-16 fighter aircraft with Litening targeting pods made by Rafael Armament Development Authority Ltd. and Northrop Grumman (NYSE: NOC). Under the deal, which is worth an estimated $40 million, the RNAF will purchase 20 Litening pods plus support equipment for ground and aircrews.
The Litening is one of the world's most advanced attack and navigation pods. It is equipped with day and night vision capabilities, enabling detection, recognition, identification and laser designation of air-to-surface and maritime targets, enabling the delivery of laser and GPS-guided munitions.
Rafael said that the deal with the RNAF underscored the Litening's position as the world's leading assault and navigation pod. The
spokesman added that the RNAF also purchased Rafael's Reccelite Tactical Reconnaissance pods several months ago.
More than 700 Litening pods are now in use in the air forces of the US, Australia, Hungary, andĘ Israel Air Force's F-16 fighter, as well as on the German Luftwaffe's Tornado fighter aircraft. The Litening is also being integrated into the new EuroFighter Typhoon aircraft.
Rafael and Northrop Gruman will begin deliveries of the pods in 2007, with the procurement due to be completed in 2008.