F-35: EOTS order

In a little noted press release, we learn this:

II-VI Incorporated (Nasdaq: IIVI) today announced an agreement between its subsidiary Exotic Electro-Optics and Lockheed Martin (NYSE: LMT) for two multi-year purchasing agreements. Financial terms of the agreements were not disclosed.

The first is for Lockheed Martin's F-35 Electro-Optical Targeting Sensor (EOTS) and the second is for Lockheed Martin's Sniper Advanced Targeting Pod (ATP). Purchase orders from this agreement will be reflected as bookings based on the II-VI bookings policy of reporting customer orders received that are expected to be converted into revenues during the next 12 months. 

Revenue is usually paid "on delivery".  So, we begin to see the manufacture of advanced systems for the F-35.

If you're not familiar with EOTS, here's a little info:

The Electro-Optical Targeting System (EOTS) is the world’s first and only sensor that combines forward-looking infrared (FLIR) and infrared search and track (IRST) functionality. It provides the Warfighter with an affordable, high-performance, lightweight, multi-functional system for precision air-to-air and air-to-surface tracking in a compact package. The pilot has access to high-resolution imagery, automatic tracking, IRST, laser designation and rangefinding and laser spot tracking at greatly increased standoff ranges. Integrated into the F-35 Lightning II’s fuselage with a durable sapphire window, the low-drag, stealthy EOTS is linked to the aircraft’s central computer through a high-speed fiber-optic interface.

EOTS is one of those "advanced capability" systems that critics try to ignore.  It is one of those systems that will be part of the revolution in capabilities this 5th generation fighter will bring to the game.   It is one of those systems that will have planners, strategists and tacticians completely re-evaluating the way they deploy and use the F-35.  It is one of those systems that is going to make the old fashioned "dogfight", which so many critics are focused upon, pretty much a thing of the past.

This is one of the systems and capabilities that separate the F-35 from 4th generation fleet - and largely ignored by those who are critics of the program.

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