During the Euronaval 2016 trade show and exhibition, Safran Electronics & Defense is showcasing shipborne optronic (electro-optical) and inertial navigation systems that underpin high value-added services for naval forces undertaking all types of engagement scenarios. The high performance offered by Safran’s solutions is based on state-of-the-art optronic and inertial navigation technologies, and their integration into naval platforms and combat systems.
A benchmark in the naval sector, Safran designs, develops and produces attack periscopes, optronic masts and radar masts. The new Series 30 family of masts, for instance, features a non-hull penetrating design, with a large number of sensors in a small space. The optronic attack mast version includes several high-resolution cameras, a panoramic surveillance function, electronic warfare antennas, communications equipment and a GPS receiver.
Safran’s expertise in advanced navigation systems is reflected in its Sigma 40XP system. Designed to offer high-precision over long periods (exceeding 96 hours), these systems meet the most demanding criteria for submarine navigation. Calling on a laser gyro core, they also feature laser technologies that guarantee sustained high precision, along with operational flexibility. Safran’s Sigma 40XP systems have been chosen for France’s Barracuda class nuclear submarines, as well as for the Améthyste nuclear attack submarine modernization program and export Scorpène subs produced by French naval shipyard DCNS. To date, this system has been fitted to 75 submarines of 4 different types.
Safran is displaying a complete range of optronic systems for surface vessels, including the new Paseo NS (Naval System) and XLR turrets (eXtra Long Range), the EOMS NG panoramic surveillance and fire control system for front-line ships, and the Vigy Observer for patrol ships and other light vessels. Whether integrated in the ship’s own combat system or remotely operated from a special console, these systems address intelligence, early warning and engagement requirements for all types of ships.
Paseo is a modular family of optronic sighting and surveillance systems. On display at Euronaval 2016 are the versions NS and XLR Paseo, features high-resolution sensors for target detection and identification at very long range, day or night, to provide timely threat warnings. It offers high-precision identification, tracking and fire control functions, operating at long range against air and naval targets, even under adverse weather conditions. Its anti-ship missile detection function is used in conjunction with Safran’s NGDS (New Generation Dagaie System) decoy launcher.
The Vigy Observer system is offered as the optronic sensor in the new BlueDome system to protect commercial vessels against piracy.
Sigma inertial navigation systems are already fitted to more than 500 warships. The Sigma 40 laser gyro navigation system is the European benchmark for front-line combat platforms. Sigma 40 systems have now logged more than 12 million hours in operational service, and accumulated fleet data clearly proves the exceptional reliability of the Sigma 40.
Safran has expanded its product line with the addition of BlueNaute®. Robust, compact and maintenance-free, the BlueNaute navigation system is based on a disruptive inertial sensor technology, the hemispherical resonator gyro (HRG), patented by Safran. BlueNaute addresses the requirements of both commercial and naval ships. HRG technology is characterized by an unlimited lifespan and very high reliability, while fully meeting the requirements of the International Maritime Organization and the SOLAS (Safety of Life at Sea) treaty.
Safran offers the Euroflir® family of gyrostabilized optronic pods for the most demanding air-naval operations. Euroflir systems can be fitted with several types of sensors, including infrared imagers, video cameras with progressive zoom, multispectral spotters, and laser pointers, designators and illuminators. Deployed in an airborne surveillance patrol, on special-mission helicopters or maritime patrol and surveillance aircraft, Euroflir offers new reconnaissance and operational capabilities.
Safran is also displaying its new Patroller tactical drone system to address coastal protection requirements. The aircraft carries a payload up to 250 kg.
