Sagem's JIM LR binoculars win long range thermal imager contract for British army 0204123.

Defense Industry News - Sagem

On February 3, 2012, the British Ministry of Defence, through the Defence Equipment & Support (DE&S*), awarded Sagem (Safran group) a major contract for JIM LR (Long Range) multifunction infrared binoculars for its “Long Range Thermal Imager Programme”, worth a total of £5 million (6 millions Euros).

Developed and produced by Sagem, JIM LR incorporates in a single portable optronics package a number of advanced features, including day/night (infrared) vision, rangefinding, laser pointer, North seeker, GPS and data transmission. Used for intelligence, surveillance, target acquisition and reconnaissance missions, JIM LR binoculars will significantly expand the capabilities of British infantry units.

The decisive factors in the DE&S's selection were the JIM LR proven operability in severe combat environments, detection and identification performance, and a complete multimedia service designed to support a real-time intelligence cycle.

The JIM LR binoculars for the British army will incorporate new functions enabling users to successfully carry out their missions, in particular when facing asymmetrical threats:
- Image fusion between the infrared and visible channels, to penetrate camouflage during the day, along with all-weather vision (through smoke, etc.).
- Ability to record images and videos via a USB port.

Sagem will also provide training for users and maintenance staff.

Several NATO forces deploy JIM LR binoculars in their infantry, artillery, intelligence, special-mission, border and coast guard units. With this latest international contract, there are now nearly 5,000 JIM LRs in service or on order worldwide, including 2,000 with French armed forces. Winning this coveted program award also confirms Sagem's leadership in portable optronics equipment for front-line combat units.