OVERVIEW: The AN/AAQ-25 is targeting pod derived from the Low Altitude Navigation and Targeting Infrared for Night (LANTIRN) system.  Modified for Navy use, the AN/AAQ-24 pod allows equipped aircraft to designate targets for attack by laser-guided munitions.

DETAILS:  Unlike the twin pod LANTIRN system used by the USAF, the USN LANTIRN Targeting System (LTS) dispenses with the navigation pod, using a single targeting pod mounted externally beneath the F-14.   The AN/AAQ-25 targeting pod contains a high-resolution, forward-looking infrared sensor (FLIR) and a laser designator/rangefinder housed in a stablized turret for precise delivery of laser-guided munitions. It also incorportates a embedded GPS and an intertial measurment unit (IMU), allowing the pod to perform weapon release calculations and present release cures to the pilot.   The GPS also gives the LTS the capability of generating targeting coordinates for any target located on the FLIR, and in conjunction with the T3 "Tomcat Tactical Targeting" software enabled the  LTS ato provide targeting for GPS/INS guided weapons such as the JDAM, JSOW and WCMD. The LTS's improved laser receiver also allowed for laser designation of targets at up to 40,000 feet altitude, above the maximum altitude of many potential threat systems. The LTS is also capable of providing some reconnissance and battle damage assessment.

NOTES: The first combat use of the LTS was in December 1998 during Operation Desert Fox. 


SOURCES: Holmes, Tony. F-14 Tomcat Units of Operation Enduring Freedom. Oxford: Osprey Pub, 2008, pg. 19-20 ; Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia. "LANTIRN." Accessed October 26, 2014. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/LANTIRN#LANTIRN_with_the_F-14_Tomcat.


