Forward Looking Infrared (IFLIR)

The Forward Looking Infrared (IFLIR) program, detailed under Army budget line item 0214KA4510, is a critical procurement initiative focused on enhancing the Army's tactical surveillance and targeting capabilities. The primary objective is the acquisition and integration of the 3rd Generation Forward Looking Infrared (3GEN FLIR) B-Kit, which incorporates both Mid Wave Infrared (MWIR) and Long Wave Infrared (LWIR) digital video sensors. These advanced sensors are designed to improve detection, recognition, and identification ranges for ground platforms, thereby increasing the survivability and lethality of Army forces in diverse operational environments.

The 3GEN FLIR B-Kit serves as a common sensor solution intended for broad integration across multiple U.S. Army FLIR sensor systems. The program's goals include restoring and maintaining sensor overmatch against potential adversaries by enabling the detection of difficult or obscured targets and facilitating faster threat identification through automated processes. The B-Kit's design supports the Army's path forward for incorporating artificial intelligence and machine learning (AI/ML) capabilities into ground platform sensors, providing a foundation for future sensor-driven operational concepts.

In FY 2026, the Army's base funding request supports the procurement of 3GEN FLIR B-Kits, as well as associated systems engineering and program management costs. The procurement is managed by the Army's Program Manager for Ground Sensors (PM GS), with Raytheon Intelligence & Space serving as the lead integrator for the B-Kit. Additionally, a contract with DRS provides the Dewar Cooler Bench (DCB) as government-furnished equipment for integration into the B-Kit. This approach ensures that the B-Kit delivered to the Army is a complete, integrated sensor package ready for fielding on designated platforms.

The Improved Forward Looking Infrared (IFLIR) B-Kit is specifically targeted to support the XM30 and FALCONS requirements, which are key modernization efforts within the Army's ground combat vehicle portfolio. By standardizing the sensor architecture across platforms, the Army seeks to achieve economies of scale, reduce procurement and sustainment costs, and streamline logistics and training requirements. The B-Kit's modular design also facilitates future upgrades and technology insertions, ensuring long-term relevance and adaptability.

Production planning and procurement history indicate that the Army has established a recurring production schedule with Raytheon, with deliveries scheduled to begin in late 2025 and continue through subsequent fiscal years. The procurement strategy utilizes a sole-source, firm-fixed-price contract to ensure timely delivery and cost stability. The program also includes investments in contractor facilitization, tooling, engineering changes, system test and evaluation, and data management to support the transition from low-rate initial production to full-rate production.

From a program management perspective, the IFIRL line item includes funding for government oversight, systems engineering, and integration activities. These efforts are essential to ensure that the 3GEN FLIR B-Kit meets performance specifications and is effectively integrated onto host platforms. The Army's approach emphasizes risk reduction, quality assurance, and alignment with broader modernization priorities.