FLIR Awarded $40 Million Army Contract

PORTLAND, Ore., May 16 -- FLIR Systems Inc. announced today it has been awarded a contract from the US Special Operations Command, valued at about $40 million, for the delivery of up to 75 lightweight airborne multisensor thermal imaging systems for use on US Army Special Operations A/MH-6 "Little Bird" helicopters.

The thermal imaging system, measuring only 9 inches in diameter, will also contain an image-intensified CCD-TV camera and a laser range finder. The system will feature new advancements, including image sensor fusion, and will be the smallest and lightest of its kind, allowing for extended missions and enhanced range performance, FLIR said.

The contract term runs through September 30. Development will begin immediately, with deliveries beginning in early 2004. Future deliveries under the contract are subject to funding availability.

For more information, visit: www.flir.com