Lockheed Martin has selected the Orion Combat 3D Audio Management System (3D-AMS) for the next generation avionics suite of the F-16. The long-term agreement with satellite communication, tracking systems, airborne communication and audio management solutions experts Orbit Communication Systems Inc. includes development, production, and sustainment of audio management systems valued at an estimated contract of $46 million.

This agreement will enable continued delivery on current F-16s commitments for partners around the world. Lockheed Martin says that the F-16 has been proving its value for decades and continues to remain the best value among 4th generations jets for its high-tech capabilities and affordable lifecycle costs. Approximately 3,000 aircraft are flying in more than 25 countries.

The deal will further create an ecosystem to transition technologies and manufacturing to support indigenous content within India for Lockheed Martin's F-21 offering, if selected for the Indian Air Force's Multi Role Fighter Aircraft Competition. For the F-21 in particular, Orbit plans to partner with ELCOM and Radiant CPC, who will be designated as the vital sub-contractors within India. Orbit has ongoing experience with the Transfer of Technology (ToT) with Indian industry, and its in-country partners would have all the requisite capabilities to support Lockheed Martin's global fighter production programs for new hardware, maintenance repair & overhaul (MRO) and sustainment support.

"We are extremely proud to be selected by Lockheed Martin for this important program," notes Dany Eshchar, Orbit's CEO. "This win attests to confidence in Orbit's 3D Audio Management Systems which are the most advanced of their kind worldwide. This selection further positions Orbit, now celebrating 70 years since its establishment, as an industry-leading provider of audio management systems for diversified airborne platforms which include combat aircraft, trainers, and more."

Orbit's Orion AMS is based on a Dual IP Ring topology and features: spatial 3D audio, adaptive noise reduction, voice-activated detection, flexibility suitable for any size military or commercial aircraft, inherent redundancy and reduced weight.