Defence selects Australian camera sensor technology






The defence department has selected a home-grown solution for the intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities to be fitted to upcoming tactical unmanned aerial systems (UAS) purchases.

Insitu Pacific Limited and Textron Systems Australia have been selected as the final two companies in the tender evaluation process for UAS systems to be bought under LAND 129 Phase 3.

Now both companies have confirmed that they have selected the CM234 Spitfire camera gimbal (below) developed by Melbourne-based Australian company Ascent Vision Technologies should they be selected.

Ascent Vision Technologies specialises in gyro-stabilized imaging systems and fully integrated ISR solutions for counter UAS and air defence operations.

AVT’s imaging system uses electro-optical, short wave and medium wave infrared cameras, along with laser range finding and target designation technology.

Director General Army Aviation Systems, Brigadier James Allen said the Spitfire camera gimbal was a generational leap in optical camera sensor and image stabilisation technology that offers a significant capability advantage.

Brigadier Allen said: “The Spitfire camera gimbal is an extremely lightweight sensor package that provides a day-and-night surveillance and reconnaissance capability on the installed aircraft, which will significantly boost Army’s tactical UAS capabilities.

“UAS are a key component of Army’s ISR capability, with some smaller unmanned systems used last year on Operation Bushfire Assist.”

The two bidding companies will continue to refine their offerings over the coming months, prior to a Government decision on the new unmanned platform later this year.

AVT developed the gimbal with support and investment from the Defence Innovation Hub,” Mr Hodgkinson said.

Pictures: AVT

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