A transmitter that provides guidance for semi-active missiles carried by F-16 Fighting Falcon jets will continue to be produced by Exelis for Lockheed Martin.

The new order for the supply Continuous Wave Illuminator sub-systems is a follow-on to a 2012 contract and is worth $8.4 million, Exelis said, with deliveries expected to be completed in 2017.

"Our CWI sub-system provides a real edge, using the power of the electromagnetic spectrum to enable the success and safety of our aviators," said Joe Rambala, vice president and general manager of the Exelis integrated electronic warfare systems business. "Utilizing its smaller size and lighter weight, the technology performs critical targeting tasks, allowing aviators to devote their attention to the larger mission."

The CWI sub-system is a special-purpose transmitter that works with the F-16's fire control radar and mission computer. It uses radio frequency energy to illuminate airborne targets to increase accuracy and ensure the missile finds its intended target.

The F-16 was originally produced by General Dynamics but is now a product of Lockheed Martin.