FLIR Systems, Inc. introduced last week three new radar and thermal imaging systems that can be used by militaries and government border patrol agencies to detect objects on land and in the air, including microdrones.
The FLIR Ranger R8SS-3D and R8SS radars can provide mid-range detection capabilities for fixed-base and forward-deployed operations. Both systems can detect more than 500 land threats, including people walking or crawling, and report their exact locations over a data network. The R8SS-3D also detects drones at distance of up to two miles, and differentiate between birds and microdrones.
“With the ability to detect both drones and land-based objects, our new mid-range 3D radar complements our Ranger radars product line, filling a critical gap for fixed site security and the broader force protection mission,” James Cannon, president and CEO of FLIR Systems, said.
The new FLIR RECON V UltraLite can be used as a handheld or tripod-mounted thermal monocular that allows soldiers to understand better what’s happening in their vicinity. The device weighs less than three pounds and can operate for up to four continuous hours using commercial AA batteries.
“All of our innovations are the result of FLIR’s strategy to create advanced technology funded by our own research and development,” Cannon said. “These products demonstrate our focus on anticipating future needs of the dismounted warfighter and border patrol agent, and we are pleased to help support the missions of the men and women tasked to help keep us safe.”
FLIR Systems unveiled the new systems at the 2018 Special Operations Forces Industry Conference recently held in Tampa, Florida.