AN/AAS-38
| AN/AAS-38 Nite Hawk | |
|---|---|
| Forward-looking infrared laser designator | |
| AN/AAS-38A mounted on F/A-18C Hornet aircraft | |
| Status | In use |
| Manufacturing Info | |
| Manufacturer(s) | |
| Introduced | 1984 |
| Production period | 1984 – 2001 (17 years) |
| No. produced | >450 |
| Specifications | |
| Width | 12 in (0.3 m) |
| Length | 5 ft 11 in (1.8 m) |
| Diameter | 13 in (33 cm) |
| Weight | 340.3 lb (154.36 kg) |
| Usage | |
| Used by country | See § Users |
| Used by military | See § Users |
| Platform(s) | |
| Variants |
|
The Lockheed Martin AN/AAS-38 Nite Hawk is a high-resolution FLIR, laser designator, and laser tracker pod system for use with laser-guided munitions. The US Navy used the AAS-38 on the F/A-18C/D Hornet and F-14D Tomcat in combination with the AN/AAS-50 navigation FLIR pod for laser-guided munitions delivery.
The system provides real-time target data allowing the pilot to locate, identify, track and engage targets. It allows the aircraft to perform high-speed low-altitude interdiction and close air support missions at night in visibility conditions reduced by smoke, dust, smog or haze. In combination with the AAS-50 and a pair of night vision goggles, the Nite Hawk provides the capability to maintain situational awareness, navigate and avoid terrain, acquire and designate targets, and assess battle damage after deployment of munitions.