Raytheon is rolling out a new artificial intelligence (AI)-powered electro-optical sensor it is targeting for integration on the U.S. Army’s Future Vertical Lift aircraft. 

The Raiven electro-optical/infrared (EO/IR) system will be able to identify objects both optically and spectrally in real time, a capability that is not available on other EO/IR sensors, the company says. 

“The future battlespace will consist of a myriad of threats from all directions evolving at an unprecedented pace,” says Torrey Cady, vice president of Surveillance and Targeting Systems at Raytheon Intelligence & Space. “Raiven improves platform survivability and keeps the warfighter safe by providing accurate, persistent target observation coupled with accelerated information sharing. This combination enables a decision-making process that simultaneously reduces pilot workload while accelerating engagement decisions to prosecute targets much faster than adversaries.”

Raiven uses AI, hyperspectral imaging and light detection and ranging (LiDAR), which allows aircrews to see up to five times farther than with traditional imaging, the company says. Using AI, the system creates a picture of the area and automatically detects and identifies threats. Raytheon designed it based on its existing Multi-Spectral Targeting System sensors.

The first version of the system, RT-1000, will begin flight tests in 2024 as Raytheon seeks to offer it for the Army’s Future Long Range Assault Aircraft and Future Attack Reconnaissance Aircraft.