Safran sensor for RAN’s OPVs

Safran Electronics & Defense’s Vigy Engage electro-optic sensor has been selected by Saab Australia as part of the situational awareness system for the Royal Australian Navy’s (RAN) Sea 1180 Project, the company announced on 4 September.

The RAN’s Sea 1180 Project is building 12 offshore patrol vessels to replace existing Armidale-class patrol boats.

The Vigy Engage is a light, panoramic, multi-sensor shipboard electro-optic system that includes a cooled infrared imager, video channels and a laser rangefinder. Employing advanced stabilistion techniques, the system provides clear images day or night, including in rough seas and at high speed.

Capable of detecting long-range targets, Vigy Engage will provide a decisive advantage to the RAN in asymmetrical environments such as protection of ports and infrastructures, maritime police, anti-terrorist and anti-piracy missions.

It will also provide assistance in operations such as fishing and economic zone protection, navigation aid and assistance to ships and crews at sea.