HENSOLDT, a global leader in defence and security electronics, announced the launch of its new-generation airborne imaging system, the ARGOS-15, at the Africa Aerospace and Defence (AAD) Expo 2024. This system represents a significant advancement in multispectral sensor technology and is set to become the go-to solution for modern intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) missions.
The ARGOS-15, a 15-inch gimbal system, builds on the success of HENSOLDT’s renowned ARGOS family. It offers unparalleled performance for medium-to high altitude missions on both manned and unmanned airborne platforms. Featuring an advanced, modular design and AI-powered functionalities, this next-generation system is an essential solution for modern defence and security applications.
“HENSOLDT has been at the forefront of airborne imaging technology for over 35 years. With the launch of the ARGOS-15, we are reinforcing our position as a leading provider of airborne imaging technologies. This system’s superior capabilities will ensure that our customers remain at the forefront of modern surveillance and reconnaissance missions,” said Sunette van Rensburg, Head of Sales of HENSOLDT’s Optronics business in South Africa.
Building on over three decades of experience in airborne electro-optical systems, the ARGOS15 follows on the widely deployed ARGOS-II, integrated on more than 34 platforms worldwide. It offers the optimal blend of legacy performance and next-generation innovation, bringing together decades of experience with the latest technologies, features and benefits
Equipped with next-generation multispectral sensors, the ARGOS-15 delivers unmatched image quality across diverse lighting conditions. Its image fusion capabilities combine thermal, daylight and SWIR sensors, ensuring optimal visibility in the most challenging environments.
The HD images enable detailed aerial video analysis so that infrastructures, troop movements and targets are clearly recognisable, even under detrimental light and weather conditions. With highly accurate boresight alignment and retention under harsh conditions, in-flight bore-sighting becomes unnecessary.
The ARGOS-15 features 4-axis stabilisation architecture, coupled with a high-precision inertial measurement unit (IMU), delivering sub-5 µrad stabilisation for superior image clarity. This class-leading stabilisation ensures reliable performance during long-range surveillance and target acquisition.
Common aperture architecture for lens-size optimisation offers an optimal balance between multi-spectral sensors and internal volume usage. All cameras are designed with optimized detector and lens-matching for best performance. Multi-spectral video is simultaneously available, exposing different information from the scene.
At the heart of the ARGOS-15 is an AI-powered object detection, classification and tracking system. Using an integrated GPU, operators can effortlessly detect and track targets with its advanced one-shot object classifier, reducing workload and improving mission efficiency, while real-time processing, allows rapid decision-making in dynamic environments.
Equipped with HENSOLDT’s specialised laser sensors, the ARGOS-15 features a comprehensive laser suite, featuring a dual-wavelength, high-power laser-designator and rangefinder for precise intelligence, surveillance, target acquisition and reconnaissance (ISTAR) capabilities.
Furthermore, the ARGOS-15 ensures operational superiority at altitudes of up to 50,000 feet and is designed to support a wide range of platforms, including tactical and medium-altitude long-endurance (MALE) UAVs, helicopters, fixed-wing aircraft and aerostats. Its modular design allows for easy integration across various applications, including military, paramilitary, law enforcement and search-and-rescue missions.
Designed, developed and manufactured in South Africa, the ARGOS-15 is subject to South African export regulations, offering wide exportability and ease of integration.
HENSOLDT provides comprehensive in-country support, ensuring customers receive the highest level of operational readiness and service excellence.
With production deliveries beginning mid-2025, the ARGOS-15 is set to become the global benchmark for airborne surveillance and reconnaissance missions.
