Deliveries will start in 2004 and run for several years. FLIR won the order from Simrad Optronics, a Norwegian company that is the prime contractor and integrator for the project.
The FOS incorporates FLIR's thermal imager, a laser range finder, GPS, goniometer, tripod and, in some systems, a north-seeking gyro. The FOS is used as a forward observer and target identification and location system for day and night operations.
FLIR's thermal imager is integrated into the system or can be used as a standalone handheld unit. It uses quantum-well infrared photodetector technology, which was developed by FLIR's Sweden Imaging Div.
For more information, visit: www.FLIR.com