The name might be new, but Teledyne FLIR will be well-known to many Dubai Airshow visitors under its former moniker of FLIR Systems, which Teledyne Technologies acquired in May. The company specializes in imaging systems, and it is showing a range of its latest products at the Dubai Airshow while underlining its commitment to the GCC region.
That commitment has seen the company undertaking sales and servicing activities in the UAE for nearly 14 years. This operation expanded earlier this year through the creation of FLIR Systems Middle East (FSME), with a 37,780-sq-ft facility established adjacent to Dubai’s Al Maktoum Airport. The FSME Lab services a wide range of the company’s well-known Star SAFIRE electro-optic (EO) imaging systems, as well as the SkyRanger R70 quadcopter UAV, which has sold widely in the Middle East.
Teledyne FLIR (Stand 1646) is also working in close cooperation with the Emirates Advanced Research and Technology Holding (EARTH)—part of the EDGE group—to transfer maintenance work for the airborne sensors of the UAE’s Joint Aviation Command to EARTH’s Electro Optics Center of Excellence (EOCE) in Abu Dhabi. FSME Lab is available as a backstop to ensure timely repair and maintenance.
Elsewhere in the region, Teledyne FLIR has signed an MoU with Saudi Arabia's Al Tadrea Manufacturing Company (TMC), with an aim of building strategic cooperation in defense and security markets.
In Dubai, Teledyne FLIR is exhibiting a range of Star SAFIRE 380 EO turret systems, including the 380-HD, -HLD, and –HDc. The latest 380X technology upgrade also is appearing at the show, the system featuring advanced “intelligent imagery” functions such as digital mapping overlays and augmented reality. Teledyne is exhibiting the UltraForce 350-HD and -275-HD compact EO systems. Built in Europe, they are ITAR-free turreted systems.
For the future, Teledyne FLIR is working on next-generation long-range targeting systems, with enhanced intelligent sensing and greater standoff capability. They will incorporate advanced laser systems for designation.