FLIR Systems’ Star SAFIRE 380-HD electro-optical/infrared sensor completed successful flight operations on the Northrop Grumman Firebird, an intelligence gathering air system, which can be flown as a manned or unmanned aircraft.

The Star SAFIRE 380-HD is a 15" durable turret, gyrostabilized, multi-spectral, digital high-definition optical sensor designed for use on UAS, helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft. The system, weighing less than 100 lbs, boasts the capability to run eight payloads simultaneously, including both SWIR and a laser designator.

During the recent Empire Challenge, sponsored by Joint Force Command (JFCOM), three systems were installed on Firebird and operated continuously to meet the flight duration requirements.

"Through reliance, performance and easy integration, we are confident the latest gimbals in the Star SAFIRE HD family will continue set the standards for the future of EO/IR airborne solutions," said Bill Sundermeier, President of FLIR Government Systems. "We are proud that the Star SAFIRE 380-HD has proven to be incredibly complementary to the universal interface on the Northrop Grumman Firebird."

"Northrop Grumman completed a detailed assessment for multi-spectral EO/IR sensors suitable for multiple missions," said Rick Crooks, Director of Special Projects and Firebird Program Manager for Northrop Grumman Aerospace Systems. "We selected the Star SAFIRE 380-HD for its performance, capability and ease of integration. FLIR has provided outstanding support to the Firebird program and the key full motion video assets used during Empire Challenge."