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Archive for the ‘Optics’ Category

SCD USA Announces Design-In Wins for MIRA SWIR Camera Across Multiple North American Defense Programs

Thursday, May 22nd, 2025

MIRA Short-Wave Infrared Camera Delivers Advanced CST and Event-Based Imaging for Enhanced Threat Detection; Initial Orders Secured for Airborne Application

Colorado Springs, Colorado – May 21, 2025, – SCD USA proudly announces the successful design-in of its MIRA Short-Wave Infrared (SWIR) camera into several major defense programs across North America. These integrations span a variety of defense platforms, including man-portable systems, armored fighting vehicles, loitering munitions, and counter-UAS systems.

In a key milestone, SCD USA has also secured an initial low-rate production order for airborne deployment, reflecting the MIRA camera’s technological maturity and growing relevance in advanced defense applications. This integration marks the beginning of broader adoption, with MIRA poised to become a standard imaging solution in future procurements across these platforms.

MIRA is powered by SCD’s advanced SWIFT-EI InGaAs detector, offering exceptional SWaP-C (Size, Weight, Power, and Cost) SWIR sensor, with VGA resolution, multi-spot Asynchronous Laser Pulse Detection (ALPD), and ultra-high-speed frame rates up to 1,500 fps. The SWIFT-EI also integrate event-based, neuromorphic imaging, which reduces bandwidth requirements by detecting and transmitting only scene changes—critical for high-efficiency SWIR imaging in real-time battlefield scenarios.

Additionally, MIRA incorporates Coded Spot Tracking (CST), providing unmatched operational flexibility for a wide range of missions. With its 10µm pixel pitch, compact design, and low power consumption, MIRA is ideally suited for integration into small payloads, missile seekers, vehicles, and hand-held devices. Its enhanced background-independency improves situational awareness in complex environments.

“The integration of MIRA into these defense programs underscores its essential role in enhancing operational effectiveness across modern military platforms,” said Mark Fydenkevez, CEO of SCD USA. “We remain committed to delivering next-generation SWIR technology that empowers our customers to achieve mission success with unmatched performance and innovation.”

Thales Unveils Its Panoramic Quad-Tube Night Vision Goggle

Wednesday, May 21st, 2025
  • Presented for the first time at SOFINS1, PANORAMIC is a lightweight, compact night vision goggle equipped with four light intensification tubes to provide an extra-wide field-of-view. It is particularly well-suited to the needs of special operations forces and specialised units conducting sensitive missions such as counter-terrorism and hostage rescue operations.
  • Fully funded by France’s defence innovation agency (AID), the development of the PANORAMIC goggle was completed in just over two years by Thales’s centre of excellence for soldier optronics.
  • The PANORAMIC binocular is currently being evaluated by the French Army’s Technical Section (STAT) and Special Forces.

The PANORAMIC night vision goggle provides a field-of-view approaching the capabilities of the human eye to enhance situational awareness in low-light conditions. With four tubes instead of two, soldiers can quickly perceive their entire operational surroundings without moving their heads, enabling them to react more quickly to potential threats in their peripheral field of vision.

PANORAMIC’s patented architecture offers the best combination of performance, ergonomic design and volume currently available on the international market. It weighs just 740 g and is no wider than the soldier’s helmet. As well as the conventional helmet flip-up feature, each of the outer tubes can be raised independently, powering off automatically to guarantee discretion. Designed for optimum energy efficiency, this revolutionary new product is battery operated, with an available external battery pack for longer periods of operation.

The PANORAMIC night observation device is fully compatible with night sights such as the XTRAIM weapon sight. It is a compact, robust unit designed to accommodate future technologies and functionalities, and includes an optimised maintenance plan to maximise operational availability.

PANORAMIC unveiled for the first time at the 2025 edition of SOFINS, offering a further illustration of Thales’s 30-year track record of innovation in the design and development of night observation solutions to meet the full range of requirements of land forces personnel.

Specifically designed for special operations forces and specialised units in France and internationally, the PANORAMIC goggle is 100% made in France and ITAR-free.

“SOFINS is the ideal opportunity for us to present PANORAMIC, our new extra-wide field-of-view night observation device. Thales’s team technical expertise allowed the development of a ground-breaking night vision solution offering the robust design and outstanding performance needed to support the success of night-time missions and protect our soldiers at their most vulnerable moments.”

– Alexis Morel, Vice President, Optronics, Missile Electronics and Unmanned Air Systems, Thales

1 SOFINS: Special Operations Forces Innovation Network Seminar

FN Issues Optics Mounting Service Bulletin for FN Reflex MRD Pistols

Tuesday, May 20th, 2025

(McLean, VA — May 20, 2025) FN America, LLC recently discovered a condition on the FN ReflexÒ MRD pistol that, in very limited circumstances when using the incorrect set of screws to mount specific optics, the pistol could experience binding, cycling issues, or interference with the firing pin safety block. The condition was first identified on a Reflex MRD with a Viridian RFX11 optic installed using the incorrect FN-provided screws labeled “604” which were too long. In this case, the screws labeled “603” should have been used.

When mounting any optic to the Reflex MRD, it is imperative to use the correct FN-supplied screw and only the correct FN-supplied screw. Do not use the screws provided by the optics manufacturer because those screws were not designed to interface specifically with the Reflex MRD and could cause damage to the slide.

The chart in the Reflex Owner’s Manual explains which size screw to use. It has been updated to include the Viridian RFX11 Optic. When installing the Viridian RFX11 optic, make sure to use only the FN-provided “603” screws to ensure proper function of the pistol (Top of Figure 1). Before installing all other optics, refer to the chart in the owner’s manual for the correct-sized screws. If your optic is not listed, please contact the FN Customer Service at 1-800-635-1321, or by email at customerservice@fnamerica.com.

Figure 1

Screw 603 on top. 604 on bottom.

To ensure that the correct FN-supplied screws are being used: while holding the optic separately from the pistol, place the screws through the screw holes in the optic and measure or count the threads protruding from the bottom; there should be no more than .045 inches, or 3 threads visible (Figure 2). The screws should also be installed to the correct torque (6 – 8 in/lbs), regardless of what may be recommended by the manufacturer of the optic. Take care not to overtighten beyond the correct torque settings as this may deform or compress the optic housing.

Figure 2

No more than 3 threads or .045 inches below the surface of the miniature red dot (MRD).

To view and read the FN Reflex Owner’s Manual or Optics Mounting Guide, please visit fnamerica.com/customer-support/owners-manuals.

For questions about this service bulletin or assistance in returning an FN Reflex pistol for a repair or evaluation, contact FN Customer Service at 1-800-635-1321, or by email at customerservice@fnamerica.com. Hours of operation are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Eastern time, Monday through Friday.

Aimpoint Introduces Active Law Enforcement Discount Program

Monday, May 19th, 2025

Manassas, Virginia – Aimpoint, the leading manufacturer and innovator of red dot sighting technology, announces the launch of its ACTIVE LAW ENFORCEMENT DISCOUNT PROGRAM, extending increased support of the professional end-user community by offering deeper discounts and priority access to Aimpoint® industry-leading optics.

Aimpoint stands behind the men and women who protect and serve our country. Whether the individual is an active-duty service member, veteran, first responder, or security contractor, the ACTIVE LAW ENFORCEMENT DISCOUNT PROGRAM ensures that professionals in critical roles have access to trusted, high-performance optics designed for duty use.

Completed within minutes at aimpoint.us/le-military-discount, the application and verification process allows quick access to establishing an account, where the exclusive pricing structure can be viewed. Additional benefits of the program include:

NEW purchase program for individual officers making premium AIMPOINT optics accessible whether on or off duty.

Streamlined account setup allows approval within minutes to begin using the program.

Exclusive communications for members, including early product announcements and insider news.

Professional training content curated by the Aimpoint Professional Training team.

Priority customer service. You are always our priority.

“With a legacy of commitment to our nation’s Law Enforcement and Military, Aimpoint prioritizes the needs of Professionals who require ultimate reliability in their gear, ” said Keith Parker, Director of Professional Sales & Training at Aimpoint. “We are pleased to extend the new discount program and the opportunity to support individuals’ duty and lifestyle needs.”

About Aimpoint

As the originator of red dot sighting technology, Aimpoint is trusted as the worldwide leader of reflex sights in both quality and technical support. For 50 years, AIMPOINT red dot sights have been the top choice of military, law enforcement, hunters, and sport shooters worldwide. For more information on AIMPOINT products, visit the company’s webpage: www.aimpoint.us

Elbit America’s Night Vision Goggles Provide Marines Precision, Accuracy, Confidence

Friday, May 16th, 2025

Squad Binocular Night Vision Goggle systems will support USMC missions in low-light and no-light conditions world-wide

FORT WORTH, TEXAS – May 14, 2025 –Elbit Systems of America (Elbit America) recently received a delivery order valued at $112 million for Squad Binocular Night Vision Goggle (SBNVG) systems from the Marine Corps Systems Command. The SBNVG systems will be produced at the company’s facility in Roanoke, Virginia through December 2026. The delivery order was placed under a multi-year Indefinite Delivery/Indefinite Quantity (ID/IQ) contract secured in 2023.

Elbit America’s SBNVGs are lightweight, helmet-mounted systems that combine a binocular with high -performance white phosphor image intensification tubes and an enhanced clip-on thermal imager. The thermal capability allows Marines to detect otherwise hidden targets, even in complete darkness.

The SBNVG provides unmatched depth perception, clarity and situational awareness – whether Marines are operating vehicles, maneuvering on foot, or navigating tunnels or dark buildings. Built for extended missions, the SBNVGs deliver exceptional performance and extra-long run times, no matter the environment.

“Production of more than 20,000 Squad Binocular Night Vision Goggle systems – and  continued orders – demonstrate their impact and effectiveness for the U.S. Marine Corps,” said Erik Fox, Senior Vice President and General Manager of Warfighter Systems at Elbit America. “SBNVGs provide our Marines a decisive advantage. They can see, detect, and react more quickly than their adversaries – an edge that’s critical in today’s complex battlefield.”

“Elbit America’s Squad Binocular Night Vision Goggle system enhances the capabilities of our Marines, making them an unmatched force on the battlefield,” said Elbit America President and CEO Luke Savoie. “These advanced systems build on more than six decades of night vision innovation, enabling the U.S. Marine Corps to operate with precision, accuracy and confidence.”

More details on Elbit America’s Night Vision solutions are available at  www.elbitamerica.com/night-vision.

Photos via DoD.

Wilcox Announces Two New Additions to our Line of Weapon Mounts

Tuesday, May 6th, 2025

NEWINGTON, NH, May 5th, 2025 –Wilcox Industries Corp. is pleased to announce two new additions to our line of weapon mounts.

The Flip-Pivot Mount allows for the integration of a thermal weapon sight [TWS] or night vision device [NVD] onto a Mounted Machine Gun Optic [MMO].  Additionally, the TWS or the NVD can be flipped up and rotated 180 degrees to be used separately as a 1x rear viewing standalone optic, providing a new option of flexibility and overall performance.

The FWS-I Side Flip Mount is designed to be interoperable with an array of weapon platforms that utilize a MIL-STD 1913 or NATO 4694 Rail. The FWS-I uses force-to-overcome to quickly flip your monocular away from your weapon optic during operation.

Both the Flip-Pivot Mount & FWS-I Side Flip Mount will be available for live demonstrations at Booth #1804 during SOF Week 2025 in Tampa, FL, from May 5th to May 8th. Wilcox Product Experts will be on hand to provide additional information throughout the show.

For More Information

For information on these or other Wilcox Products, please visit our website at www.wilcoxind.com  or call 603-431-1331.

EOTECH Partners with ForumPay to offer Cryptocurrency Payments on Website

Sunday, May 4th, 2025

Plymouth, MI (May 2025) – In an effort to enhance the shopping experience with its customers, EOTECH has partnered with ForumPay, a leader in cryptocurrency payment solutions for both online and PoS systems, to seamlessly accept crypto payments on its ecommerce site.

“With the number of crypto consumers expected to reach one billion by the end of 2025, crypto payment acceptance is fast becoming an essential requirement for ecommerce retailers across the globe,” said ForumPay CEO, Josh Tate. “We are excited to be working with EOTECH to provide our next generation payment solution to its customers and further enhance their buying experience.”

Advantages EOTECH customers will recognize are reduced transactional costs compared to typical credit cards, as well as secure, private, and transparent transactions. EOTECH benefits by tapping into a new demographic of consumers who prefer using cryptocurrencies for their purchases, as well as improving the overall purchasing experience of its customers.

“Our goal here is to remove any barriers that customers may have in purchasing our products,” said Jacob Wolfrum, Digital & E-Commerce Manager for EOTECH. “ForumPay offers simple APIs and plugins that easily integrated into our platform providing a simple process, useful dashboard and great customer service.  This was a simple decision that mutually benefits our customers and business.”

The crypto purchasing option is live on the EOTECH website now and can be selected at checkout.  

For more information, please visit www.eotechinc.com

MICROOLED Announces Partnership with Vortex Optics and Brand New US Headquarters

Thursday, May 1st, 2025

DALLAS–MICROOLED Inc., the leading global supplier of AMOLED displays, is proud to announce their partnership with Vortex Optics to advance the development of high-performance weapon sights for optical sighting systems. This collaboration continues MICROOLED’s commitment to delivering elite display solutions that enhance optical accuracy, durability, and user experience in competitive and mission-critical environments.

MICROOLED’s state-of-the-art AMOLED technology offers unparalleled image clarity, extreme high contrast ratios, optimal energy efficiency, enhanced visibility and faster target acquisition – key attributes for situational awareness in the harshest battlefield environments. By integrating these displays, Vortex Optics aims to elevate the performance of its weapon sights, ensuring reliable and clear visuals. Next-generation scopes, along with other reconnaissance and surveillance optical systems, rely on innovative AMOLED technology to gain tactical edge. Beyond defense, AMOLED displays are also critical components to commercial optics for outdoor enthusiasts, smart eyewear for athletes, vision for sophisticated medical equipment and high-end professional cameras.

“We’re excited to support Vortex Optics with our AMOLED display technology, a critical element to optical sight systems,” said John Robinson, VP of MICROOLED Inc. “Our displays are designed to meet the rigorous demands of multiple applications. This strategic partnership reinforces our dedication to military technological advancements and continues to push the boundaries of what AMOLED displays can achieve.”

This collaboration aligns with MICROOLED’s vision to remain at the forefront of display technology innovation. Another testament is their brand new office in Dallas, TX, establishing a US presence, showcasing commitment to innovative partnerships and to meet the evolving needs of the optical sighting systems market. John Robinson also commented on the new US Headquarters, “This milestone positions us to better serve our clients and drive forward groundbreaking advancements in micro-display technology.”