FLIR awarded $40m contract for U.S. Army Special Ops aircraft

EDP Weekly's IT Monitor, May 26, 2003

FLIR Systems, Inc. (Nasdaq:FLIR) has announced that it has been awarded an indefinite delivery/indefinite quantity development contract from the US Special Operations Command, valued at approximately $40 million, for the delivery of up to 75 lightweight airborne multi-sensor thermal imaging systems for use on US Army Special Operations A/MH-6 "Little Bird" helicopters. The contract award is in support of the US Special Operations Command, Technology Applications Contracting Office.

"This contract award is significant not only because of its size, but also because it further validates our business strategy to leverage our leading technology and strong financial condition to pursue larger, longer-term program business for our Imaging Division products. We are pleased to have this opportunity to develop the next generation of thermal imaging technology for the US Special Forces," said Earl R. Lewis, President and CEO of FLIR Systems.

The compact multi-sensor airborne thermal imaging system, measuring only 9" in diameter, will also contain an image-intensified CCD-TV camera and a laser range finder. The system will feature new advancements in technology including image sensor fusion. The product will be the smallest and lightest of its kind, allowing for extended missions and enhanced range performance. "The development of this product will further solidify FLIR's position as the premier supplier of compact multi-sensor airborne imaging systems," Lewis said.

The contract term runs from award date through September 30, 2009. Development will begin immediately, with deliveries beginning in early 2004. Future deliveries under the contract are subject to funding availability.

FLIR Systems designs, manufactures and markets infrared imaging systems worldwide for a variety of applications. FLIR's imaging products are used in such diverse applications as public safety, defense, navigation, electronic newsgathering and search and rescue. Thermography products support such applications as condition monitoring, non-destructive testing, medical science, research and development, and manufacturing process control.