DRS Technologies Inc. will produce thermal imaging systems for the US Marine Corps' M1A1 Abrams main battle tank Firepower Enhancement Program under a $12.8 million contract awarded by the Network Centric Systems division of Raytheon Co. in McKinney, Texas. The program will enable more rapid and accurate target engagement, extended engagement ranges and increased tank lethality.

The Parsippany, N.J., company will build, integrate, test and install the program's version of the second-generation forward-looking infrared thermal imaging systems used by the US Army. Its optronics unit in Palm Bay, Fla., will produce the systems. Delivery is expected to begin in September and to conclude in November 2006.