Precision Targeting System (PTS) 180
The Precision Targeting System 180 first began fielding in August 2002. Used by Marines deployed in Afghanistan, the system is the end-result of a relatively speedy procurement process, coming approximately seven months after the need for interim and adequate target location technology began being felt there. The 180 designation refers to the number of units procured by the US Marine Corps.
Similar on the outside to binoculars, the PTS-180 uses a laser to determine the range, magnetic direction and the vertical interval of a target.
Limitations of the systems include the need for soldiers to provide map location of targets that in turn have to be relayed to the pilot through radio communication, and the need for the operator of the PTS-180 to be located within 4,000 meters of the target. An additional limitation is the system's lack of visibility over long distances at night.
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