INVESTMENT COMPONENT
Modernization
Recapitalization
Maintenance
Provides long-range sensor and anti-armor/precision assault fire capabilities, enabling the Soldier to shape the battlefield by detecting and engaging targets at long range with tube-launched, optically tracked, wire-guided (TOW) missiles or directing the employment of other weapon systems to destroy those targets.
The Improved Target Acquisition System (ITAS) is a multipurpose weapon system used as a reconnaissance, surveillance, and target acquisition sensor. ITAS provides long-range anti-armor/precision assault fire capabilities to the Armys Infantry and Stryker Brigade Combat Teams (BCTs) as well as to the Marine Corps. ITAS is a major product upgrade that greatly reduces the number of components, minimizing logistics support and equipment requirements. Built-in diagnostics and improved interfaces enhance target engagement performance.
ITAS’s second-generation forward-looking infrared sensors double the long-range surveillance of its predecessor, the M220 TOW system. It offers improved hit probability with aided target tracking, improved missile flight software algorithms, and an elevation brake to minimize launch transients. The ITAS includes an integrated day/night sight with eye-safe laser rangefinder, a position attitude determination subsystem, a fire-control subsystem, a lithium-ion battery power source, and a modified traversing unit. Soldiers can also detect and engage long-range targets with TOW missiles or, using the ITAS far-target location (FTL) enhancement, direct other fires to destroy the targets. The FTL enhancement consists of a position attitude determination subsystem (PADS) that provides the gunner with his own Global Positioning System (GPS) location and a 10-digit grid location to his target through the use of differential GPS. With the PAQ-4/PEQ-2 Laser Pointer, ITAS can designate .50 caliber or MK-19 grenade engagements. The ITAS can fire all versions of the TOW family of missiles.
The TOW 2B Aero and the TOW Bunker Buster have an extended maximum range to 4,500 meters. The TOW 2B Aero flies over the target (off-set above the gunners aim point) and uses a laser profilometer and magnetic sensor to detect and fire two downward-directed, explosively formed penetrator warheads into the target. TOW Bunker Buster, with its high-explosive blast-fragmentation warhead, is optimized for performance against urban structures, earthen bunkers, field fortifications, and light-skinned armor threats. ITAS operates from the High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicle (HMMWV), the dismount tripod platform, and Stryker anti-tank guided missile (ATGM) vehicles.
In this Publication
None
Other Major Interdependencies
The ITAS system is integrated on the M1121/1167 HMMWV and the Stryker Anti Tank Guided Missile (ATGM). The ITAS system provides the guidance for the TOW missile.
ACQUISITION PHASE
Technology Development
Engineering & Manufacturing Development
Production & Deployment
Operations & Support
NATO Maintenance and Supply Agency:
Canada
Direct Commercial Sale (DCS):
Portugal
Raytheon (McKinney, TX)
Training Devices:
Intercoastal Electronics (Mesa, AZ)
