Sponsored by Blighter Surveillance Systems
www.blighter.com
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14 June 22. NSPA and Safran set up a maintenance facility for portable optronic binocular JIM-Compact Eurosatory, Villepinte, June 15, 2022 NSPA (NATO Support and Procurement Agency), in cooperation with Safran Electronics & Defense, has received the approval from NVO (Night Vision and Optoelectronics) Support Partnership nations to start the transfer of knowledge, tools and equipment to set up a maintenance facility for JIM COMPACT multifunctional binocular at the NSPA Headquarters in Capellen, Luxembourg. This set-up will equip the NSPA Electro-Optics Laboratory with a dedicated Test Bench to perform assembly / disassembly, adjustment operations and software updates on the JIM Compact equipment supplied by Safran Electronics & Defense. Once the bench is delivered in 2023, NSPA will achieve Level 3 Maintenance tasks on the JIM Compact. This set-up will provide fast turn-around maintenance to nations as well as long-term life cycle savings by sharing investments in equipment, stocks and dedicated resources. The NVO Support Partnership currently comprises Belgium, France, Luxembourg, Denmark, Greece, The Netherlands and Norway.
The scope of support includes a wide variety of products: stand-alone, integrated or networked thermal imaging, image intensifying, optical and laser systems used for observation, surveillance, target acquisition, aim, location or target designation including aiming platform or control system, as well as related accessories and support equipment. NSPA brings together, in a single organization, acquisition, logistics, medical and infrastructure capabilities including the related procurement function to answer a vast variety of customer requirements in all domain: air, ground, maritime, cyber and space. These range from the multinational acquisition of complex platforms, such as aircraft, helicopters and unmanned systems, to the provision of supplies such as fuel, spare parts and ammunition, or services such as maintenance of radars for air defence, or deployable infrastructure, transportation, medical and catering services.
Over 60,000 companies are registered in the NSPA source file. www.nspa.nato.int Safran is an international high-technology group, operating in the aviation (propulsion, equipment and interiors), defense and space markets. Its core purpose is to contribute to a safer, more sustainable world, where air transport is more environmentally friendly, comfortable and accessible.
Safran has a global presence, with 76,800 employees and sales of 15.3 bn euros in 2021, and holds, alone or in partnership, world or regional leadership positions in its core markets. Safran is listed on the Euronext Paris stock exchange and is part of the CAC 40 and Euro Stoxx 50 indices. Safran Electronics & Defense is a world leader in the supply of solutions and services in optronics, avionics, electronics and critical software for both civil and military markets. The company equips more than 1,000 ships, 25,000 land vehicles and 10,000 aircraft worldwide.
15 June 22. Leonardo unveils new tactical multimission radar. Leonardo has launched a new software-defined radar – the Tactical Multi-Mission Radar (TMMR) – at the Eurosatory 2022 defence exhibition in Paris.
TMMR is an Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar that is suited for counter-unmanned aerial systems (C-UAS), counter rocket, artillery, and mortar (C-RAM), very short-range air defence, and the surveillance and protection of platforms, vehicles, borders, territories, and critical infrastructure, the company stated.
The C-Band radar can detect, classify, and track aerial and surface platforms, specifically very small high manoeuvring targets, a Leonardo spokesperson told Janes on 14 June.
According to the Leonardo spokesperson, TMMR has a detection range of 40 km and can detect aerial targets at an altitude of approximately 23,000 feet, depending on the threat. The spokesperson said that the radar was able to detect micro UAS from a 7 km distance at an altitude of approximately 3,200 feet, but not a nano UAS. (Source: Janes)
14 June 22. IAI Unveils the GREEN LOTUS Multi-Sensor System for C-RAM and Air & Ground Surveillance. Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) has unveiled its latest tactical multi-mission, multi-sensor system: the GREEN LOTUS (ELI-2139). Designed to provide high performance Counter-Rocket, Artillery & Mortar (C-RAM) and Air & Ground Surveillance capabilities to maneuvering as well as stationary forces, the GREEN LOTUS features a unique array of active and passive sensors that maximize situational awareness and countermeasures efficiency.
The GREEN LOTUS integrates a proven range of IAI-ELTA’s sensors into a highly automated system that detects, tracks, classifies, and identifies aerial targets, from very low Radar Cross Section (RCS) mortar, rocket and artillery fire and small drones, to manned and unmanned fixed and rotary wing aircraft. It also performs ground surveillance, detecting and tracking vehicles and slow-moving personnel.
The multi-sensor data is collected and processed within the system’s unified command and control (C2) console, which employs AI to enhance detection, classification, and identification capabilities. The combined data provides users with a clear and comprehensive Situational Awareness Picture (SAP) and seamlessly integrates with countermeasures systems, facilitating highly effective target acquisition and discretion.
The simultaneous ability to perform C-RAM together with air and ground surveillance makes GREEN LOTUS an exceptionally valuable force protection tool. Moreover, the system’s modular architecture enables it to be tailored to each customer’s specific requirements. All the sensors are co-located on a uniquely designed structure and share power, communication buses, and cooling. The structure allows for full 360° coverage when populated with a full sensors array.
Yoav Tourgeman, IAI EVP and CEO of ELTA, said: “We are proud to introduce our latest system, which continues IAI’s long legacy of technological innovation. The GREEN LOTUS integrates IAI’s range of proven sensors into a unique, advanced multi-mission system that offers important performance advantages. Our customers will realize maximal value as the system’s architecture enables it to evolve when new threats are introduced. The unveiling of the GREEN LOTUS at Eurosatory highlights IAI’s strong commitment to providing our customers with exceptional land defense solutions”. (Source: ASD Network)
15 June 22. IAI Unveils Advanced Gunfire Detection System. Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) has unveiled a gunfire detection system to counter small arms, snipers, machine guns, and rocket-propelled grenades.
The “Othello-P” features artificial intelligence processing and the fusion of extended short-wave infrared electro-optics and acoustics sensors to provide immediate and precise gunfire detection and geo-location.
The system can be installed on both stationary platforms and moving vehicles such as “all-terrain vehicles, armored fighting vehicles, main battle tanks, and autonomous unmanned platforms.”
The company has also developed a portable version of the system for infantry and special forces operations.
The Othello-P’s “unique passive solution with 360-degree coverage” enables “very short and accurate sensor-to-shooter loop closing,” the company stated.
Can Detect Fire in Noisy Environments
“This unique system detects the flash, blast and shock wave of the projectile,” marketing director Asher Abish was quoted by Breaking Defense.
Abish added that the manufacturer has fixed the problem of sound interference faced by other gun detection systems in urban or noisy surroundings.
“The system can detect an AK-47 fire from a distance of 400 meters (1,312 feet) in day time and at longer distances at night,” Abish stated, adding that a rocket-propelled grenade can be detected from 2 kilometers (1.24 miles) away. (Source: Google/https://www.thedefensepost.com/)
14 June 22. Excelitas Technologies? Corp., a leading industrial technology manufacturer focused on delivering innovative, market-driven photonic solutions, today announced the new RaptIR family of high-definition, long range, medium wave infrared (MWIR) thermal cameras. Optimized for the latest generation of small pixel (8 µm) sensor technology using best in class continuous zoom optics, RaptIR provides exquisite thermal imaging capability to offer long range performance in a very compact form factor for a variety of civil and military applications.
As the latest addition to Excelitas’ range of medium range thermal cameras covering the MWIR waveband, RaptIR allows quicker target detection, recognition and identification for more timely, informed decision making, whether that be for Counter-UAS (C-UAS), border surveillance or maritime fire-control. RaptIR features and benefits include:
* High aperture optics provide increased image clarity and signal to noise ratio
* Small pixel (8 µm) sensor technology offering a 25% increase in range performance
* Narrow field of view options to provide more pixels on target at longer range
* Ultra-fast 14x continuous zoom for seamless target acquisition and identification
* Linear cooler enabling near silent operation and over 27,000 hours MTBF
* Low SWaP camera reducing the burden for platform integration.
“Excelitas has a proven pedigree in designing and manufacturing high performance optical modules and cameras for demanding surveillance, targeting, naval and C-UAS applications, which is why we are so pleased to add the new MWIR thermal camera family to our product line,” said Graham Evans, Product Director at Excelitas. “RaptIR provides system integrators and end users great flexibility within a compact space envelope to best meet their performance and budget requirements – delivering high-end performance that competes with larger, more expensive solutions for a variety of applications.”
For more information about RaptIR, please visit: https://www.excelitas.com/product/raptir-high-definition-mwir-camera or Eurosatory Stand # C788, June 13 – 17, 2022 in Paris, France.
14 June 22. International Defence Company MKU’s Prachi Gupta Brings to Europe 2 Game-Changing Optronic Solutions.
MKU, which is presenting at the Eurosatory, has contributed defence and security solutions to various governments in Europe, including Germany, Spain, Norway, Sweden and Estonia; Prachi Gupta leads the company’s optronics division
International Security and Defence Company MKU brings to Eurosatory two revolutionary optronic solutions: Netro NB-3100 Aviation Night Vision Goggles and Netro Aiming Solutions. The first is designed to help aircraft and helicopter pilots navigate while flying at low altitudes or taking off or landing in pitch darkness or threatening conditions. The latter comprises sophisticated sighting solutions for those operating grenade launchers, heavy and light machine guns and rifles.
“Vision, that we take for granted in daily life, can become a precious commodity in combat situations,” says Prachi Gupta, CEO of MKU’s optronics division. “It can mean the difference between victory and defeat, life and death. MKU’s optronic solutions are developed after listening to the problems of the modern soldier. The Netro NB-3100 Aviation Night Vision Goggles and Netro Aiming Solutions have been evolved as a solution to such problems.”
Ms Gupta, who graduated with a BE degree (Systems Engineering) from the University of Warwick, UK, has been with MKU for more than 9 years, during which time she introduced the company’s optronics division. In this position she has led the company on a major growth trajectory,
opening up new horizons for defence technology around the world. In keeping with MKU’s motto, she believes in developing efficient soldier and platform optronic systems that ‘empower heroes’. MKU’s theme for the Eurosatory 2022 is ‘Force Undeterred, Innovation Unmatched’, and Ms Gupta epitomise this spirit of innovation.
Here are key features of the two products Ms Gupta will be presenting at Eurosatory:
(1) The Netro NB-3100 Aviation Night Vision Goggles are designed to help aircraft and helicopter pilots to effectively navigate while flying at very low altitudes to avoid detection in high threat environments, or while taking off or landing at night or in pitch dark conditions or dangerous environments. The smart night vision device is powered by a Gen III Image Intensifier Sensor for excellent low light performance. Along with this, there are custom cockpit modification solutions to control and convert the lighting system in cockpits, as well as cargo and passenger areas, to make them compatible for use with the Aviation Night Vision Goggles (or ANVG). This includes:
* ANVG compatible lighting for instrument panel, sub‑panel and overhead panel
* NVG (Night Vision Goggles) compatible floodlights
* NVG compatible LED lamp substitutes
The Aviation Night Vision Goggles are ideal for use in recce and rescue missions.
(2) If the ANVG is for the modern pilot then MKU’s Netro Aiming Solutions are made up of refined state-of-the-art sighting and aiming solutions for the modern soldier. Particularly, those who operate grenade launchers, heavy and light machine guns and rifles. These optronic solutions enhance long-range target accuracy through dust, smoke, fog and darkness. They include a Thermal Weapon Sight, Laser Range Finder and Red Dot Sight custom mounted on the weapon for unmatched aim.
“Both these solutions are emblematic of MKU’s ‘smart trinity’ that is made up of functionality, technology and design,” says Ms Gupta.
MKU GmbH, Germany, is committed to defence and security solutions in Europe. They have provided ballistic body armour to the Spanish Army and Estonian police force, ballistic shields to Norwegian and Swedish police forces and ballistic armour plates to the Spain border police.
MKU has armoured helicopters, naval frigates and army containers for the German Army as well. Their armouring solutions for German Army containers in the past have helped the army safeguard themselves from severe firing by terrorists. The company also has a long term cooperation and development agreement with the French major Thales, for the co-development and marketing of optronic devices.
About MKU
MKU Ltd. is a global defence and homeland security company on a mission to empower heroes. They are one of the leading solution providers for advanced optronic and ballistic protection solutions for soldiers and platforms for military, paramilitary, homeland security, police and special forces. With a customer base in over 100 countries, MKU strives to empower heroes, who stand in the line of duty, through their smart solutions that deliver confidence. Their operations are based in India and Germany. They have provided protection to over 3 m soldiers and 3000+ platforms, across 230 forces, till date. Their Kavro protection solutions offer enhanced protection for soldiers and platforms, using smart technologies, design and features. These include combat helmets, body armour, ballistic shields as well as ballistic solutions for naval, air and land platforms and vehicles. Their Netro night vision and thermal devices provide excellent detection, identification & recognition capability to soldiers at night to enhance their night fighting capabilities.
Their products are tested and certified by leading labs and agencies in the world including National Institute of Justice (NIJ), USA. Their facilities are AS-9100-2009 and ISO 9001-2008 certified in addition to the much coveted and stringent BA 9000 certification. They follow the NATO AQAP quality standards and are also registered with International Aerospace Quality Group (IAQG). Their R&D House is recognized by the Government of India and they aggressively invest a sizable portion of their annual turnover into research and development activities. They also hold more than 10 patents in India and abroad.
15 June 22. Camero unveils latest through-the-wall system.
Camero unveiled its latest through-the-wall system, the Xaver 1000, at the Eurosatory 2022 defence exhibition in Paris.
The Xaver 1000, intended for tactical and intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) missions, has an HD 3D ‘sense-through-the-wall’ capability, IIan Abramovich, vice president of business development, sales, and marketing at Camero, told Janes on 15 June.
This gives the user much-improved situational awareness compared to previous systems, enabling the operator to detect static and moving individuals, as well as specific body parts, animals, and objects, he said.
The Xaver family of systems are radar-based and use ultra-wide-band radio signals between 3–10 GHz. All systems (including the latest Xaver 1000) can see through drywall, concrete, and various structures, though not solid metal.
Metal drywall studs or concrete reinforced with rebar can block the signal. (Source: Janes)
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Blighter® Surveillance Systems (BSS) is a UK-based electronic-scanning radar and sensor solution provider delivering an integrated multi-sensor package to systems integrators comprising the Blighter electronic-scanning radars, cameras, thermal imagers, trackers and software solutions. Blighter radars combine patented solid-state Passive Electronic Scanning Array (PESA) technology with advanced Frequency Modulated Continuous Wave (FMCW) and Doppler processing to provide a robust and persistent surveillance capability. Blighter Surveillance Systems is a Plextek Group company, a leading British design house and technology innovator, and is based at Great Chesterford on the outskirts of Cambridge, England.
The Blighter electronic-scanning (e-scan) FMCW Doppler ground surveillance radar (GSR) is a unique patented product that provides robust intruder detection capabilities under the most difficult terrain and weather conditions. With no mechanical moving parts and 100% solid-state design, the Blighter radar family of products are extremely reliable and robust and require no routine maintenance for five years. The Blighter radar can operate over land and water rapidly searching for intruders as small a crawling person, kayaks and even low-flying objects. In its long-range modes the Blighter radar can rapidly scan an area in excess of 3,000 km² to ensure that intruders are detected, identified and intercepted before they reach critical areas.
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