DRS Technologies, a Finmeccanica Company, announced that it’s reconnaissance, surveillance and target acquisition (RSTA) Group has been awarded a five-year indefinitedelivery, indefinite-quantity (IDIQ) contract, valued at up to $514.3 million by the US Army Contracting Command to qualify and manufacture the small tactical optical rifle mounted micro-laser range finder (STORM-mLRF). The contract calls for a minimum delivery of 150 and a maximum of 32,000 rifle mounted micro-laser range finders from DRS Technologies.

Integrated into a single system, the STORM sight combines a laser range finder with a digital compass and a processor that computes and displays targeting data, an infrared aiming laser, a visible pointer and illuminator, and the multiple integrated laser engagement system (MILES) to simulate tactical engagement in training exercises. It is designed to operate on an array of Army weapons including the M16A4, M4, M107 and M110—as well as on the Stryker remote weapon station and the common remotely operated weapon station (CROWS II).

DRS RSTA, based in Melbourne, Florida, and Dallas, Texas, will apply its expertise in system integration and systems engineering as the prime contractor for the project. RSTA will test and produce the STORM for the product manager soldier precision targeting devices unit of the Army’s programme executive office soldier, which develops and fields advanced equipment for the nation’s warfighters.

“We are in the business of strengthening and broadening the capabilities of today’s military forces through technology,” said RSTA President Terry Murphy, “For nearly half a century, DRS has perfected the development of lightweight, portable, thermal-based detection and engagement systems to help protect hundreds of thousands of troops by enabling them to operate effectively. This contract is a welcome confirmation that our technologies provide value to our military customer.”