The LANTIRN (Low Altitude Navigation and Targeting Infra Red for Night) pod system has
enhanced the F-14s all-weather and night attack capabilities well into the next century. The
Tomcats capability for carrying iron-bombs is improved by the ability to perform precision
strikes and deliver laser-guided ammunition without the assistance of another aircraft.
An infrared sensor is used to track and zoom in on targets using the Combat Targeting Modes.
An Eye-Safe Targeting Mode is used for training exercises.
The LANTIRN system enables even more accurate delivery of unguided bombs, since the crew can use
the laser to determine the range to the target. This information is feeded by the LANTIRN pod to
the aircraft's fire control system. Apart from the land target attack
mode the LANTIRN pod has also an air-to-air mode. With the LANTIRN pod installed, the F-14 can
fly a maximum speed of Mach 1.3.
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