Thermal image of American soldiers on mission
As for special night vision systems, the modern soldier has never before had the opportunity to choose from such a wide range. Several companies in North America and Europe produce special equipment so that the soldier can observe their general or specific targets of interest.
Combined systems for 24/7 surveillance are available on the market along with target illumination devices. For general night surveillance, there is a range of handheld thermal imaging models on the market that not only provide excellent night surveillance, but also good visibility through the dust and smoke of the battlefield.
The night vision (NV) capabilities of modern combat surveillance systems are an essential tool for round-the-clock combat. In addition, they are a means that identifies a target with high accuracy, and then informs other fighters about it. Along with sophisticated optoelectronic and infrared (OE / IR) systems, modern surveillance models are often equipped with communication interfaces that allow the transmission of target data and images in real time to the command and control network at higher echelons or neighboring units. These interfaces allow the transmission of complex information about the target in its pure form without interference, in contrast to voice instructions, for which there is always a risk of not being heard due to the noise of the battlefield with potentially catastrophic consequences.
The systems described in this article use thermal imaging to capture images of the surrounding area.
Most thermal imaging uses infrared lenses that collect focused radiation, which is then scanned by infrared detectors placed on a phased array. Thus, the thermogram is created by the grating in about 1/5 of a second. The signal generating unit then converts the thermogram into electrical impulses and transmits this information to a display, which presents the image to the viewer in different brightness levels in accordance with the infrared radiation that the object emits in the field of view.
Thermal imaging devices are generally divided into uncooled systems operating at room temperature and cooled systems in which the sensor is cooled down to about 100 Kelvin. The advantage of cooled systems is that they provide much better clarity, because the sensor can detect the smallest changes in temperature down to 0.1 ° C, even at distances of up to 300 meters. However, refrigerated systems have the disadvantage that they are more fragile than their uncooled counterparts. In addition, they also need either a gas cylinder or a Stirling motor / pump to cool the sensor. The first solution poses a significant logistical burden, while the second can sometimes be too noisy at a certain distance and is not suitable for hidden tasks.
Europe
Europe is home to several manufacturers of combat surveillance systems, including the French company Sagem Defense Securite. This company manufactures models JIM-LR and JIM-MR. The cooled observation system JIM-LR with a small mass of about 2.6 kg has a sensitivity of 3-5 microns; despite the cooling pump, this system is very quiet. This characteristic was demonstrated more than once during night exercises, when the JIM-LR was almost inaudible even when working in a small empty room in the quiet of the night. In addition, the JIM-LR has three magnifications: x2, x4 and x8; and an identification distance of about 3.5 km for a tank, and the detection of such vehicles is possible at a distance of 9 km. The JIM-LR user also benefits from an installed GPS receiver that ensures the exact location of the sensor and therefore any target of interest. This accuracy is further enhanced by the digital magnetic compass.
Sagem's close-range JIM-MR has a wide field of view and 2x magnification in the 8-12 micron range. This allows the user to detect and identify the tank at distances of 3, 5 and 1 km, respectively. Meanwhile, precise target coordinates are provided by a laser rangefinder and a built-in digital magnetic compass.
The VARIOVIEW family of handheld thermal imagers from the German company Jenoptik AG also uses uncooled thermal imaging devices, therefore, they are completely silent. Jenoptik manufactures two basic versions: VARIOVIEW 150 and VARIOVIEW 75. The first one has 150 mm IR lenses, the second one is 75 mm lenses, respectively, they are designed for long-range and short-range observation. In the VARIOVIEW 150 product line, Jenoptik offers a basic system that can only be used as a thermal imager and a separate model to which a laser rangefinder has been added. Long battery life and low maintenance costs make the VARIOVIEW 150 "frugal" from a logistic point of view. In terms of recognition distances, the VARIOVIEW 150 can detect a human figure from about 5 km and a car at a distance of up to 8 km. VARIOVIEW 75 has similar characteristics, although its detection distances are 2.5 km for a person and 5 km for a car. In addition, the VARIOVIEW 150 and 75 models can be connected to an external power supply and video monitors.
For dedicated surveillance systems, Jenoptik manufactures a NYXUS day / night observation platform that can be mounted on a tripod, a useful option for continuous operation. Long-term operation is also facilitated by 12 hours of battery life. To obtain target coordinates, NYXUS combines a gyroscope and a goniometer (angle measuring device) along with a digital compass and GPS. For observation, the thermal imager is combined with binoculars, while the eye-safe class 1M laser rangefinder helps to accurately determine the coordinates of the target. Jenoptik notes that this product is ideal for artillery observer units alongside advanced aircraft controllers. To this end, the NYXUS model entered service with the German army back in 2007.
In addition to NYXUS, Jenoptik is supplying the NYXUS-LR handheld thermal imager as part of the German IdZ-ES future infantryman program. NYXUS-LR facilitates 24/7 surveillance and provides good smoke and dust penetration. It provides remote sensing and target coordinates along with its own position via a digital magnetic compass and optional GPS. There is also a CCD camera (CCD - Charge Coupled Device, aka semiconductor photosensitive matrix) along with a laser rangefinder. The detection ranges for NYXUS-LR are about 5 km for a vehicle and 4 km for its identification (vehicle), the laser rangefinder also has similar ranges. The addition of a wireless interface also allows the NYXUS-LR to transmit the image to other users.
JIM-LR
SOPHIE MF
Simrad VINGTAQS
Other members of the Jenoptik NYXUS family include NYXUS MR and SR instruments. These uncooled lightweight thermal imagers, which the company says, provide "capabilities previously unattainable in wearable uncooled equipment for long-range detection of people and vehicles." The company manufactures models NYXUS-MR and NYXUS-SR for medium and close observation.
As the Sagem product line demonstrates, France is a hub for excellent night vision systems, and Thales is also responsible for a number of such systems. The company manufactures one of the most famous product lines in this field, namely the SOPHIE family. The SOPHIE models feature an ergonomic design, binocular configuration and Thales claims this family is the first handheld long-wave thermal imaging system capable of operating independently of any external cooling system. SOPHIE was originally manufactured in the 8-12 micron range, which became the NATO standard due not only to its ability to work in a wide variety of conditions, but also to the good smoke and dust permeability inherent in this range.
The SOPHIE family includes the cooled SOPHIE-MF model, which has three fields of view: narrow, wide and x2 magnification. Thales claims that the thermal imager can operate in extreme conditions, in temperatures from -40 ° C to + 55 ° C; useful feature for soldiers using the device in the climate of Afghanistan. With a range of up to 10 km, this surveillance system also includes an RS-422 interface, a laser rangefinder and laser pointer, a magnetic compass, built-in GPS and a daytime color camera. One of the attractive features of the SOPHIE-MF is that it can be used to detect camouflaged targets.
A simple SOPHIE thermal imager is connected to the SOPHIE-MF model. Like his "brother", he can work in similar extreme conditions and identify camouflaged targets. SOPHIE also has three fields of view; narrow, wide and electronic magnification; the complete model weighs 2, 4 kg. The SOPHIE has five hours of battery life, but unlike the SOPHIE-MF, it lacks a laser pointer, rangefinder and daytime color camera.
Both SOPHIE and SOPHIE-MF thermal imagers operate in the 8-12 micron range. However, Thales' SOPHIE-ZS operates in the 3-5 micron range and has a continuous optical zoom of x6, an RS-422 interface and weighs 2.4 kg. Meanwhile, SOPHIE-XF is a third generation thermal imaging target positioning system. Like the SOPHIE-ZS, the SOPHIE-XF has a continuous magnification of x2.6-x16. In addition, the battery lasts for 7 hours of operation, and the range of the laser rangefinder is up to 10 km.
Thales operates under the slogan "modularity" and therefore has also manufactured a surveillance system known as the ELVIR Modular Uncooled Infrared Camera, which can be used as part of a laser thermal imaging system or as a stand-alone product. With a detection range of 1.5 km for a person and up to 3.2 km for a tank, the ELVIR's operating temperature range is somewhat less and ranges from -33 ° to + 58 ° C. Meanwhile, the ELVIR-MF, equipped with GPS, digital magnetic compass and x4.7 magnification lens, forms a multifunctional option in the ELVIR family. This model recognizes a car at a distance of 4.7 km and a person at a distance of 2.3 km.
Thales has a wealth of experience in both optoelectronics and several other defense industries. The European continent, however, is also home to several companies specializing exclusively in similar products. One such company is the Belgian OIP Sensor Systems, which manufactures a range of thermal imaging surveillance systems. The company's product line includes the AGILIS instrument operating in the 3-5 micron range, it has a built-in GPS and compass, an optional laser pointer and rangefinder. AGILIS uses a closed Stirling cooling system and operates at temperatures from -30 ° C to + 55 ° C. Customers looking for remotely controlled thermal imaging equipment can opt for the LEXIS long-range reconnaissance and surveillance system from OIP Sensor Systems, which also includes a daytime camera and an eye-safe laser rangefinder. LEXIS is available with both cooled and uncooled sensors in the 3-5 or 8-12 micron range.
The CLOVIS Portable Thermal Imaging Monitor is another item in the OIP Sensor Systems catalog. CLOVIS has a detection range of over 25 km and an identification range of 10 km for an aircraft-sized target. Like AGILIS, CLOVIS has a 3-5 micron sensor with a closed Stirling device.
Another European leader in surveillance systems is the Norwegian company Simrad Optronics. The company's FOI2000 is modular and designed to equip forward observers; it can be supplemented with a digital camera, laser pointer and / or GPS. The FOI2000 is based on the LP1OTL target positioning device from the same company and the FTI thermal imaging system from FLIR Systems. The left eyepiece lens of the LP1OTL shows a thermal image to the user, who "communicates" with the device using the software menu based on the Windows-CT operating system. In addition, LP1OTL has a zoom function. The north-facing gyroscope and the Vectronix GONIOLIGHT digital goniometer perform the function of determining target data. It is also possible to connect the FOI2000 to the network, which will allow the image and data to be transferred to other users.
The Swiss company Vectronix AG has carved out its niche as a leading provider of advanced surveillance equipment. In particular, its GONIOLIGHT goniometer can be connected to a tactical network, external GPS, gyroscope or external power source. Vectronix manufactures the GONIOLIGHT in several versions, which can be complemented with VECTOR binocular rangefinders, while the GONIOLIGHT TI is complemented by the MATIS HH thermal imaging camera from Sagem. On the GONIOLIGHT GTI model, this thermal imaging camera can be supplemented with a gyroscope. Alternatively, the GONIOLIGHT range can be equipped with thermal imaging cameras and laser rangefinders specified by the purchaser.
The UK is home to Qioptiq, a company that makes specialized thermal imaging surveillance systems for the Army. These products include the VIPIR-S uncooled thermal sighting scope with x3 magnification. VIPIR-S can detect a person at a distance of 400-600 meters and weighs up to 700 grams. VIPIR-S operates in the 8-12 micron range and is powered by 4 AA batteries. The VIPIR-2S handheld thermal imaging device joins the company's line-up. The latest model has a magnification of up to x2, 7, an electronic zoom of x2, and an uncooled sensor is installed in it. The VIPIR-2S weighs 950 grams and, like the VIPIR-2, operates in the 8-12 micron range and is powered by 4 AA batteries.
The British company Innovative Sensor Development Ltd also manufactures thermal imaging systems along with scopes and electro-optics for the driver. Surveillance products include a DACIC (Detailed and Contextual Imaging Camera), it operates in temperatures from -42 ° C to + 45 ° C and weighs 6.5 kg with a case.
SEESPOT-III
GONIOLIGHT Tl
Binoculars from Vectronix
Customers looking for hand held binocular rangefinders can choose the VECTOR family from Vectronix. These models gained extraordinary popularity and were sold to 17 NATO member countries, not to mention the rest. VECTOR binoculars have a laser rangefinder and x7 magnification, as well as a built-in digital magnetic compass; The wireless RS-232 interface allows the user to easily transfer the image to his colleagues over the network. In order to increase the accuracy of fire, the VECTOR family of binoculars has a digital calculator that allows the user to compare the meeting point with the desired aiming point. For long-term stationary tasks, VECTOR binoculars can be mounted on a single support or on a tripod. In the VECTOR family, the VECTOR-IV model is designed for infantry units, and the VECTOR-21 model is intended for use as a specialized forward vision system. The latter model has the same thermal imaging performance as the VECTOR-IV Nite model.
The eye-safe Vectronix MOSKITO laser rangefinder is also binocular and can measure vertical and horizontal angles. MOSKITO has x3 magnification for night time and x5 magnification for daytime operation, and performs range measurement at ranges up to 4 km. Along with these characteristics, another useful attribute of the MOSKITO model is the auto-gating brightness enhancement function. It adapts the image depending on the lighting conditions. This is especially important in urban environments where light conditions change rapidly. One has only to think about when you leave a dark room and go out into bright sunlight and vice versa, then you understand what effect this has on any vision. Although MOSKITO has a built-in GPS receiver, it can also be connected to an external GPS system if required. In addition to the VECTOR family and the MOSKITO model, Vectronix also manufactures BIG35 Night Binoculars for routine forward surveillance operations.
Israel
Night vision systems of all types and generations are in service with the Israeli army and have played an important role in all military operations over the past 25 years. As a result, the Israeli defense industry is now a supplier of advanced systems ranging from soldier's goggles to long-range surveillance systems combined with other sensors.
CORAL-CR developed by Elbit Systems Electrooptics El-Op is designed for medium range surveillance; its tests were carried out in the combat units of the Israeli army. According to the company, it is able to mark and memorize 12-bit coordinates and transmit them back. CORAL-CR is a lightweight thermal imaging surveillance system with a range of several kilometers, designed for infantry and reconnaissance units. The portable CORAL-CR is designed for simple operations.
In 2008, El-Op was selected to supply its MARS systems to the Israeli army. This handheld thermal imaging target acquisition system uses uncooled sensor technology. The system includes a laser rangefinder, GPS, compass, day channel and recording system.
The company has now developed the HELIOS system, which is advertised as the "Rolls-Royce of thermal imagers". HELIOS mounts on a tripod and has a system that combines a cooled thermal sensor, color and panchromatic cameras, laser rangefinder, GPS and compass. The company also manufactures video data collection systems that will collect data from different sensors into a single image.
ITL's target clientele is primarily ground forces such as infantry, snipers, reconnaissance and special forces. Portable, durable, with low power consumption, modern infantry systems allow you to work effectively in harsh combat conditions without imposing the physical and psychological burden on the soldier. These systems range from individual modular models to entire combat systems optimized for high-precision operations.
ITL recently launched a family of very lightweight, high performance uncooled thermal handhelds, weapon scopes and surveillance systems under the COYOTE designation. COYOTE employs major common components based on a unique energy efficient sensor that can be combined with a variety of lenses and adapted to customer requirements.
COYOTE optics are adapted for infantry or civilian patrols. This was achieved by adding a wide field of view, manually adjustable focus, weapon adapter, tripod mount, laser pointer, and remote control cable according to operational need. The device is available in different focal lengths (20mm, 45mm), as well as user-installable optional multipliers and magnifiers.
ITL is also developing a line of cooled thermal imaging systems. One of these HARRIER systems was recently selected by the Indian Army.
A good example of ITL's ability to combine different capabilities into one binocular system is the lightweight, multi-sensor, binocular round-the-clock surveillance and target acquisition system EXPLORER. This rugged all-in-one system combines a 3rd generation thermal imager with an eye-safe laser rangefinder with a range of up to 15 km, a high-resolution daytime camera, an integrated laser rangefinder, an integrated GPS (Code C / A (Coarse Object Locating Code), 12 channels), digital compass (degrees or miles, 1 ° RMS) and inclinometer (± 60 °). The system has a continuous magnification or three fields of view. The EXPLORER can be manual, mounted on a tripod or on a panoramic head, and remotely controlled based on operational needs. ITL says the EXPLORER provides superior, high-performance target surveillance, detection, identification and tracking capabilities.
CORAL-LS plus LDR
ITL EXPLORER
Controp recently launched its new FOX 1400mm thermal imaging camera. This new model joins the FOX family of thermal imagers that are widely recognized and widely used in the world. The new FOX camera has a 1400mm lens with x35 continuous magnification. It provides observation and tracking of targets at "ultra-long" distances. The FOX 1400mm has already been supplied to several customers as part of a long range surveillance system for coastal protection and surveillance. The family of thermal imaging cameras, which includes FOX 250, FOX 450, FOX 720, has characteristics that the company says set them apart from other thermal imaging cameras.
FOX continuous magnification provides smooth transitions between fields of view for observation, target tracking and then close-up identification. In addition, improved image processing algorithms create a high quality picture, even if the image has a thermal spot (explosion, fire, etc.). Local automatic gain control ensures that fine details in the image are clearly displayed despite the extreme difference in the picture in the observed area and shadow areas. FOX cameras are available in three different magnifications: x12, 5, x22, 5 and x36. This allows them to be flexibly configured for any day or night requirement, whether it be for ground-based national security programs, aerial surveillance and reconnaissance, or maritime applications. In addition, FOX cameras can be connected to most existing radar systems, warning systems or other C4ISR systems (command, control, communications, computers, reconnaissance, surveillance and reconnaissance) if necessary, for maximum security. This small chamber is lightweight and is available with or without a case so that it can be incorporated into existing instrumentation or used as a stand-alone system.
Controp Local Automatic Gain Control
USA
US company FLIR Systems has worked with Simrad (see above) on surveillance equipment and is also manufacturing a line of its own devices. The RANGER-HRC system from this company consists of a cooled thermal imager with a magnification of x12.5, operating in the 3-5 micron range. Meanwhile, the color TV camera has three fields of view: standard, long-range and ultra-long range. In addition, buyers can opt for a laser rangefinder with a range of up to 20 km. The RANGER-II / III has two fields of view.
Unlike the RANGER family, the THERMOVISION 2000/3000 from FLIR Systems has three fields of view and a 320x240 quantum well infrared photodetector (QWIP) for the THERMOVISION 2000, and a QWIP 640x480 for the THERMOVISION 3000. FLIR's range of observation models is really large. there is also THERMOVISION Sentry II with x12 continuous magnification and daytime TV camera.
For general surveillance, FLIR Systems manufactures several thermal imaging binoculars, such as the MILCAM RECON III Lite (also known as the AN / PAS-26 in the US Armed Forces) which includes a 640x480 VOx microbolometer, laser pointer and color channel. MILCAM RECON III operates in the 8-12 micron range. Weighing 2.5 kg, these binoculars can be hand held or mounted on a tripod. The MILCAM RECON III is joined by the LOCALIR model, which adds a laser rangefinder and digital compass with 0.3 mil accuracy plus GPS and an optional laser pointer. LOCALIR operates in the 3-5 and 8-12 micron range and has a light weight of less than 3 kg.
MILCAM RECON III OBSERVER is also marketed under the designation AN / PAS-24, it has similar characteristics to the previous model and an optional laser pointer. FLIR Systems has created this model for highly mobile surveillance applications; users who require extremely light weight can choose the MILCAM RECON III ULTRALITE from FLIR System. The device has digital zoom x2 and x4 plus a 640x480 Vox microbolometer, its weight is less than 1.7 kg, operates in the 8-12 micron range, and the battery life is four hours.
Like many of the models discussed in this article, the FLIR Systems RECON handheld thermal imager is lightweight and operates in the 3-5 micron range at long range. It can be used for border surveillance, national security missions, intelligence and surveillance. RECON can detect vehicles at a distance of 1 km. All sensor devices are installed in a case weighing 3, 2 kg, including a battery with an operating time of about 2.5 hours. Another useful feature of the RECON camera is that it can be used manually or connected to a computer for remote control operations. In addition, for customers looking for a model that works in the 1, 06, 4, 5 and 4, 8 micron ranges, FLIR Systems manufactures a handheld SEASPOT-III thermal imager weighing 2.4 kg.
Thermal surveillance systems are also a specialty of the American company DRS Technologies. In particular, the company manufactures a handheld device called the MX-2 A1110 Rugged Thermal Imager. DRS Technologies has developed this model as a versatile system that can be used for reconnaissance and observation of the battlefield, it works in the 8-12 micron range, and is equipped with a removable eyepiece for remote operation. Powered by 4 AA batteries, a rubberized and non-reflective coating ensures that it has increased durability while reducing visibility.
Nivisys manufactures a line of optical instruments for the military and law enforcement, including rifle scopes and night vision goggles. Since here we are considering combat thermal imagers, it is worth mentioning the monocular of this company TAM-14 Thermal Acquisition Monocular. This versatile device can be used in manual mode, it is attached to a helmet or a weapon. The TAM-14 has a x2 zoom, weighs only 640 grams, and is based on an uncooled sensor with a range of 7-14 microns. Other Nivisys products include the PHX-7 thermal imaging binoculars, which operate in the same spectral band as the TAM-14. It also uses uncooled sensor technology, as in the UTAM-32 Universal Thermal Acquisition Monocular, which the company says "represents the latest advancement in our handheld thermal imager range." Like the TAM-14, the UTAM-32 can operate in different configurations: manual, mounted on a weapon, or attached to a helmet.
American Technologies Network, Corp. (ATN) produces a wide range of thermal imagers, universal systems OTIS-14 and OTIS-17, a series of THOR and RENEGADE weapon scopes and a series of handheld devices THERMAL EYE. The FIITS series of image fusion systems combine a thermal imaging camera and a brightness enhancer.
ITT Night Vision & Imaging is a well-known supplier of image intensifiers for night conditions for many allied and friendly countries. The latest model from DSNVG has been announced as the first night vision goggles to combine image intensification and thermal imaging in a compact unit.
ATN NIGHT SHADOW
IZLID-1000
Canada
Across the 49th parallel, the Canadian General Starlight Company produces a range of versatile thermal imaging systems for battlefield surveillance. They include the versatile TIM-14 Thermal Imaging Multipurpose Monocular, which has a digital magnification of x2 and several detection ranges depending on the size of the lens installed in the model. For a 22 mm lens, a person can be detected at a distance of 475 meters and a car at 800 meters, respectively, for a 16 mm lens, the ranges are 305 meters and 550 meters, for an 8.5 mm lens, the ranges are 170 meters and 300 meters. An uncooled TIM-14 can work up to 4 hours without interruption, and can optionally be attached to a helmet or weapon. The TIM-14 monocular joins the TIM-28, which operates in the 8-12 micron range and is capable of detecting a person at a distance of 1 km and a car at 1.5 km. TIM-28 can work up to 6 hours in a row, and its weight is only 800 grams.
Canada is also home to Newcon Optik, which offers a range of night vision devices, laser rangefinders, image stabilization and image intensification devices. Of particular interest for this article is the TVS-7B and SENTINEL thermal imaging systems. The first model is a goggle capable of detecting a person at 475 meters and a car at 900 meters using an uncooled sensor. With just one set of batteries TVS-7B can work up to 5 hours, its weight is 450 grams. Meanwhile, the SENTINEL thermal imaging binoculars from Newcon Optik have very long detection ranges, a person up to 1 km for a model with a 57 mm lens and 2.5 km with a 115 mm lens. The detection and identification ranges for a target the size of a tank are 3000 meters and 6000 meters for a 57 mm lens and 4000 meters and 8000 meters for a 115 mm lens. Both SENTINEL variants can operate for up to 8 hours without interruption at temperatures ranging from -30 ° C to + 55 ° C.
ITT and night vision
In the field of thermal imaging, ITT Corporation is one of the world leaders among the developers, manufacturers and suppliers of helmet-mounted and head-mounted thermal imaging solutions based on a technology other than that described in the main article, namely image enhancement. Its systems are widely used by US and Allied forces, as well as by the national security forces.
The company received a $ 19.3 million contract from the Reconnaissance and Surveillance Research Center for the supply of AN / PVS-14 monocular devices - the most popular and used night vision goggles. 80% of these points are for the Expeditionary Force, the rest for the Navy and Army. “We are delighted to support all branches of the US military with our prime night vision goggles,” said Mike Hayman, President of ITT's Night Vision Division. "This contract allowed ITT to continue developing better technology to help the American soldier own at night."
The AN / PVS-14 is a lightweight and reliable high performance thermal imaging monocular that provides improved resolution for improved mobility and target identification. These rugged devices can be hand held, attached to a helmet or camera, or attached to a weapon. The AN / PVS-14 is powered by a single AA battery and uses ITT's patented PINNACLE Generation 3 film intensifier. The PINNACLE Gen 3 tube can collect and amplify the available luminous flux more than 10 times compared to the previous generation.
Output
The experience of forward observers in modern wars will have a major impact on the design criteria for forward observation items used in tomorrow's conflicts. The wars in Iraq and Afghanistan were instructive in showing that forward observers on the ground are demanding ever greater target detection and identification ranges. This is combined with the desire for next-generation systems to have even more impressive image clarity and better means of distributing images to other users. More and more advanced systems are needed and companies producing these devices will have to solve a serious problem - creating models with increased capabilities while maintaining the mass of devices, or even reducing it.
