Qioptiq – DRAGONs Refreshed

It is widely recognised that modern small arms weapon systems are incredibly accurate and reliable, and that sighting systems need to be easy to use, effective through all weathers and provide the ability to detect targets at the maximum range possible in order to prepare the soldier for the next course of action. Qioptiq provides this capability in solutions that are easy to use and easily configurable for role/mission requirements, whilst remaining affordable and having the potential to endure a service life of 10-15 years.

At DSEi 2015, Qioptiq is presenting two new products: An extension of the DRAGON family, by adding an IR laser pointer, improving the objective, and adding a remote control; and the SAKER fused weapon sight uncooled thermal imager/I2.

SAKER fused weapon sight uncooled thermal imager/Image Intensifier by Qioptiq.

With significant interest from European programmes, the DRAGON family of uncooled thermal products from Qioptiq that utilise the latest in uncooled thermal cameras, electronics and optical technologies. Part of this family, DRAGON-C 640 (Compact) L (Laser) (DCTI640L) is an ultra-lightweight multi-purpose thermal weapon/surveillance sight that provides all round capability for the dismounted close combat user.

DCTI640L can be fitted with Qioptiq's LO GLINT coating technology to reduce sunlight glint and reflection as an option. Rugged (all Aluminium construction for structural rigidity and EMC sealing properties ensures good integration and compatibility with surrounding systems), stable (boresight stability guaranteed through state of the art optical design and lens mounting techniques), user friendly (controls have been designed and positioned for ease of access and MMI designed for ease of use across all three roles), and functional (polarity, NUC, Auto/Manual settings, zoom, boresight, display brightness, image capture) the DCTI640L can be integrated with a wide range of optical day sights in the range of x1 - x4 magnification and a 16° field of view. Light and dust shields can be provided to suit most common sight units. At only 450g, the sight’s detector type is 8-14µm, 640x480 pixel, 17µm pitch, while the laser pointer has a dual power mode (class 1 / class 3B) at 850nm.

DRAGON Compact 640 Laser, a clip-on weapon sight that is a stand alone thermal weapon sight and hand held thermal surveillance sight with an integrated IR laser pointer for target indication. (Photo: Qioptiq)

DRAGON Compact 640 Laser. (Photo: Qioptiq)

The SAKER Fused Weapon Sight Uncooled Thermal Imager/Image Intensifier (I2) is the new Fused Weapon Sight (FWS) product development from Qioptiq providing the dismounted close combat user with an enhanced, dual waveband detect, recognise, and identify (DRI) capability. SAKER is a fully qualified military fused weapon sight designed specifically for short and medium range surveillance and target engagement. It combines the latest I2 and uncooled thermal imaging capability in a single lightweight, compact yet rugged package, utilising a 17µm, 60Hz uncooled thermal sensor coupled with a near silent shutter, delivering class leading sensitivity, uniformity and system latency in an ITAR free package. At 890g (which includes the sight itseld, a Picatinny style rail grabber, three AA lithium cells, lens cap, and light security shroud), the fused weapon sight’s field of view is 8.1x6.1° and 10° circular.

SAKER features a Thermal Imaging channel nested within the obscuration of the catadioptric Image Intensifier lens, providing a zero parallax solution whilst maintaining the benefits of dedicated channels.

Currently using the Photonis INTENS 18mm tube, SAKER can be fitted with a range of standard and auto-gated ITAR and Non-ITAR tube variants, according to customer demands. The sight, which has gone through tests hot and cold and comes with a remote control (the same as the DCTI640L, in order to build commonality), attaches to Picatinny style rails in front of the day sight via a quick release throw lever, providing 24 hour capability without the need to remove or re-zero the day sight. With significant interest from special user groups, SAKER is providing a lightweight low light/zero light solution that will greatly assist in target detection and recognition at ranges well in excess of most modern assault rifles.

By involving users in the evolution of the SAKER Fused Weapon Sight Uncooled Thermal Imager/Image Intensifier, the sight allows the soldier to maximise the benefits of both technologies (I2 and un-cooled thermal imaging capability) in one compact, lightweight package that delivers a flexible architecture. (Photo: Qioptiq) 

SAKER Fused Weapon Sight Uncooled Thermal Imager/Image Intensifier. (Photo: Qioptiq)

High performance optics from Qioptiq include thermal weapon sights (TWS), observation and targeting sights, night vision goggles (NVG), remote weapon stations (RWS), driver's vision enhancement (DVE), situational awareness (SA), laser designators, eyepieces, helmet mounted displays (HMD), fire control, and laser range finders (LRF). Furthermore, in tactical missile systems one finds advanced domes from Qioptiq. Missile warning and targeting systems are enabled by Qioptiq High performance optical systems for IR and ultraviolet missile warners (MWS), IR countermeasures (IRCM), IRST, targeting pods -along with precision long-range zoom modules for border-surveillance, UAV and maritime applications in surveillance systems.

A flexible approach during design is matched with the capability across the visible to IR wavebands, providing integrated optical solutions with any sensor technology currently available. With a combination of dynamic engineering, manufacturing expertise, motivation and reputation, Qioptiq has the total capability to provide some of the most innovative and focused optical solutions to today's technological challenges. This strategic approach has made Qioptiq an ideal choice for a wide variety of prime contractors and military establishments around the world.