Lockheed to produce sniper system

AKRON, Ohio, Dec. 16 (UPI) -- The U.S. Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency has given Lockheed Martin $7 million contract to produce multiple laser-enhanced sniper systems.

Lockheed's One Shot sniper system prototype was developed under a 2008 contract from DARPA.

During tactical field tests last December, snipers successfully engaged targets twice as quickly and increased their probability of a first-round hit by a factor of two to four, depending on the distance to the target.

"One Shot provides the warfighter with a distinct advantage," said Dan Schultz, vice president for Lockheed Martin's Ship and Aviation Systems business. "Our ability to monitor wind conditions in real time is unmatched. One Shot increases the probability of hitting the target with the first round."

The One Shot sniper system consists of a lightweight, stand alone spotting scope and an attachment that projects the precise point of impact into the rifle scope.

Existing sniper scopes cannot measure wind at long distances. One Shot utilizes a laser and camera to gauge wind speed and direction within 1,640 yards while employing sensors to account for atmospheric conditions and direct-view optics for enhanced night vision capability.

The systems developed under the new contract will be used for testing with DARPA and the U.S. military services.