Raytheon has linked its Boomerang acoustic sensor and network-ready Long Range Advanced Scout Surveillance System to provide an enhanced counter sniper solution for the warfighter.

"Connecting Boomerang and netted LRAS3 is a plug-and-play operation that results in a powerful counter sniper capability," said Glynn Raymer, vice president, Raytheon Network Centric Systems Combat Systems.

"Combined, these systems facilitate a slew-to-cue capability that places the high-performance LRAS3 'eyes' on the threat, day or night. The sniper then becomes the target with a number of prosecution alternatives available ranging from direct return fire to a digital call for fire via the network."

Raytheon first demonstrated its counter sniper solution at the May 2010 Armor Warfighting Conference. The demonstration showed the immediate value of linking two systems currently in the U.S. Army inventory - Boomerang, produced by Raytheon BBN Technologies, and LRAS3, made by Raytheon Network Centric Systems.

Boomerang provides bearing and elevation cues to the netted LRAS3. The sight operator can positively identify and geo-locate the sniper and send target location and image data with a push of a menu screen button.

"Boomerang delivers reliable sniper detection," said Mark Sherman, general manager, Boomerang. "With the LRAS3's strategic standoff surveillance and Boomerang's network-ready sensors, the soldier can locate and respond to the sniper threat immediately."

With production of net-ready sights ongoing, Raytheon is adding to more than 2,600 LRAS3 units delivered to date. Previous Block 1 systems can be upgraded in the field to include network communication capability.

Raytheon BBN Technologies, a wholly owned subsidiary of Raytheon Company, has delivered more than 5,000 Boomerang systems to the field.