FLIR introduces new UAS payload family

FLIR Systems has developed a new family of payloads for the SkyRanger R70 and R80D SkyRaider UAS, the company announced on 19 November.

Called the StormCaster family of UAS payloads, the line includes two multi-sensor products: StormCaster-T, which delivers continuous zoom and longwave infrared imaging; and StormCaster-L, which provides ultra-low-light imaging, tracking and mapping.

The new products offer a 7X improvement in line-of-sight stabilisation, enhanced range of motion and greater geolocation accuracy in a rugged package.

The family is interoperable to allow users to quickly and easily change modules on the FLIR SkyRanger and SkyRaider UAS systems.

David Ray, president of the government and defense business unit at FLIR, said: ‘StormCaster-L and -T are just the beginning of this new line of advanced, high-performance payloads for our small, tactical UAS platforms. For mission needs ranging from force protection and border security to clandestine operations, FLIR StormCaster will provide heightened situational awareness, bolstered by our aircraft’s onboard, real-time artificial intelligence.’

The StormCaster-T features a FLIR Boson thermal camera to support detection, recognition, identification and target acquisition day or night, with maximum range and time-on-station. Its continuous zoom lens, with a 75mm maximum focal length, permits long distance ISR while providing clear, actionable imagery. The StormCaster-L ultra-low-light imaging camera offers advanced ISR and mapping performance during twilight and nighttime operations. Key features include 4K recorded video and full-colour night vision in low-light conditions.