Joint Effects Targeting System (JETS)

Joint Effects Targeting System (JETS)

Mission:
Provides the dismounted Forward Observer (FO) and Joint Terminal Attack Controller (JTAC) the ability to acquire, locate, mark, and designate for precision GPS guided and laser-guided munitions. It provides connectivity to the Joint forces through fires and close air support digital planning/messaging devices.

Description:
The Joint Effects Targeting System (JETS) is an Army-led, Joint-interest program with the Air Force and Marine Corps to develop, procure, and field a one-person portable targeting system for FOs and JTACs.

This system addresses the capability gap for a lightweight, hand-held, highly accurate targeting system. It will allow target engagements with precision munitions and provide crucial digital connectivity to request and control indirect fires, and close air support from all Joint assets. The portability of JETS allows small units supported by Army FOs or JTACs to have access to precision targeting in all operational environments.

The JETS system includes a hand-held Target Location Module (HTLM), a Precision Azimuth and Vertical Angle Module (PAVAM), and a Laser Marker Module (LMM). The HTLM has a day and thermal night vision sights, laser spot imaging, an electronic display, celestial navigation sensors, an eye-safe laser rangefinder, a digital magnetic compass, Selective Availability/Anti-Spoofing Module Global Positioning System (SAASM GPS), digital video output, and digital communications in a module weighing less than 5.5 pounds. The PAVAM is a compact, lightweight inertial measurement sensor which provides a 24/7 precision azimuth to the HTLM. The LMM allows the operator to laser mark targets with a coded laser spot to identify and handoff targets to air support assets, and provides a laser designation capability to target for laser guided munitions. JETS digitally interfaces with existing service-specific Forward Entry Systems (FES) and will interface with future FESs using a common interface being developed through a Joint services working group. When connected to a FES, the JETS will digitally transmit target information to higher echelons for calls for fire and close air support.

Specifications:

  • Hand-held Weight: < 5.5 pounds
  • Total System Weight: < 17 pounds (for a 72 hour mission)
  • Target Identification Range: > 2.5 kilometers day, > 1.0 kilometers night (to a NATO standard vehicle target)
  • Target Location Error: <10 meters at 2.5 kilometers range
  • Laser Marking: > 5 kilometers
  • Laser Designation: > 3 kilometers