At the opening of Eurosatory 2016 (Paris, 13-17 June), Martin Sion, Chief Executive Officer of Safran Electronics & Defence, introduced the company’s new-generation multifunction infrared binoculars, JIM Compact. The unveiling took place at this leading international defense trade show, with military delegations from both France and other countries in attendance.
The new JIM Compact capitalizes on the global success of the well-known JIM family of multifunction infrared binoculars, with some 9,000 units already in service or on order. It joins the wide range of portable optronic (electro-optical) systems and equipment offered by Safran. The design engineers at Safran called on feedback from the nearly 40 customers already deploying JIM binoculars, including a number of NATO countries.
JIM Compact meets the critical needs of today’s armies to perform even the most demanding missions: all-weather observation, engagement and precise target location. It features a very compact, robust design, light weight (2 kg with batteries), and an intuitive man-machine interface, designed for day or night front-line operations.
The new-generation JIM Compact incorporates a number of innovations, kicking off a new generation of optronics. For the observation role it includes daytime sensors and cooled infrared sensors, as well as a new feature on this type of device, a third, low-light channel. For accurate target location, it integrates a rangefinder, laser pointer, magnetic compass and GPS. An integral part of the digital battlefield, JIM Compact also features transmission and remote-control modules (Bluetooth and Wi-Fi on option), in addition to shared video streaming. It also displays laser designators and pointers without needing to add any components, providing invaluable aid to forward observers.
With its open architecture, JIM Compact constitutes a targeting system core when combined with a laser illuminator and the Sterna geographic north seeker designed and built by Safran.
JIM Compact meets today’s armed forces’ enhanced requirement for intervention and protection equipment. It expands Safran’s role in the growing market for portable optronics and digital warfighter systems, a sector where Safran is already a leader
JIM Compact has been warmly welcomed by armed forces, and has already been ordered by several NATO countries, including France.
Safran is a leading international high-technology group with three core businesses: Aerospace (propulsion and equipment), Defence and Security. Operating worldwide, the Group has 70,000 employees and generated sales of 17.4 billion euros in 2015.
Safran Electronics & Defense is a world leader in optronics, avionics, electronics and critical software for both civil and defense applications. The company’s products are deployed worldwide on more than 500 ships, 7,000 armored vehicles and 10,000 aircraft.
