On January 29, 2010, Sagem (Safran group) delivered to MBDA the first batch of new-generation infrared sights designed to fit the launchers for Eryx antitank missiles.
This batch is part of MBDA’s initial order in 2008 for approximately 400 new-generation IR sights; the sights will be deployed this year.
The new IR sight uses the latest non-cooled infrared detector technology, and calls on developments by Sagem for the FELIN (dismounted soldier integrated equipment suite) soldier modernization program.
Compared with previous generation sights, this new IR sight gives weapon system users a host of advantages: it is light, compact, silent in operation, easy to use, more reliable and more autonomous. Detection, recognition and identification ranges are also significantly improved, beyond the range of the Eryx missile itself.
MBDA recently carried out a very successful series of test firings in the Gulf region, demonstrating the operational advantages of this new sight, especially for night combat.
The sight is now on offer as either original equipment or a retrofit option to modernize current weapon systems. Since 1993, the armed forces in eight countries have ordered more than 3,500 Eryx weapon systems.
Sagem, a high-tech company in the Safran group, holds world or European leadership positions in optronics, avionics, electronics and safety-critical software for both civil and military markets. Sagem is the No. 1 company in Europe and No. 3 worldwide for inertial navigation systems (INS) used in air, land and naval applications.
It is also the world leader in helicopter flight controls and the European leader in optronics and tactical UAV systems. Operating across the globe through the Safran group, Sagem and its subsidiaries employ 6,700 people in Europe, Southeast Asia and North America. Sagem is the commercial name of the company Sagem Défense Sécurité.
