Advanced IR Sensors for Reconnaissance and Precise Engagement Sensors for Early and Remote Detection

摘要

Thermal sights in the 3-5μm (MWIR) or 8-10μm (LWIR) band are the gold standard among imaging reconnaissance sensors. They do not need any illumination as they "see" the passive thermal radiation all objects are emitting. They not only allow seeing at night but also significantly improve the capability to detect humans and targets as it is very difficult to prevent this emission. Current developments are focused on: Minimum Size, Weight and Power (SWaP). This is mandatory-especially for the dismounted soldier which is always burdened with too much weight. It is also important for the integration of IR-detectors into tight spaces, e.g. flight devices or if heat dissipation is an issue. Key essentials are IR-detector chips which are less cooled and adapted and extremely compact coolers. The new AIM thermal sight HuntIR Mk2 is to be fielded for the German Bundeswehr as thermal targeting sight with medium to long range performance or for support weapons like the heavy.50 machine gun.