EURONAVAL 2018: Safran presents the PASEO XLR.

At Euronaval 2018, Safran Electronics & Defense is presenting for the first time the new PASEO XLR (eXtra Long Range) optronic fire control system, selected by Naval Group for integration on the French navy’s new medium-size FTI frigates.

Safran is showcasing the PASEO XLR at Euronaval 2018

PASEO XLR gives surface vessels the ability to engage maritime and airborne targets as well as terrorist threats with a high degree of precision, as well as horizon-wide identification capability. It features high-performance optronic modules from the Euroflir™ pod selected for the Patroller™ tactical drone and the NH90 helicopter used by French Special Forces. It handles short- and long-range day/night surveillance and identification operations, even in difficult sea conditions with low visibility.

Alongside electro-optical director (EOD) fire control systems, Safran Electronics & Defense also offers infrared search and track (IRST) systems. Thanks to their highly-sensitive cooled infrared cameras, operating in the 3 µm to 5 µm Mid-Wavelength Infrared (MWIR) range (suitable for maritime environments), as well as their image processing power and Safran’s unique algorithms, these discreet, passive monitoring systems are able to detect conventional and asymmetric airborne and surface threats, with threat recognition capabilities exceeding those of radar systems. They cover the low-altitude segment, and can even detect threats when a ship is running in radar silence mode.

The PASEO XLR features a stabilized turret from the DALAS NG (deck-landing aid device for the Charles de Gaulle aircraft carrier), developed from 2014 to 2017 for Naval Group and French defense procurement agency DGA, and featuring cameras with very high magnification. It also includes an HDTV (high-definition TV) channel, including a powerful telescope (spotter) and a very-long-range Satis XLR infrared imager, as well as an eyesafe laser rangefinder. A SWIR (shortwave infrared) channel is offered on option, to enhance performance under foggy conditions.

All of the systems developed by Safran are designed for seamless integration, and can be operated from dedicated autonomous consoles, or connected to ships’ combat systems. The modular design ensures easy maintenance, even at sea, guaranteeing the availability required for surface operations. Safran’s products are designed to protect ships from both conventional and asymmetrical threats.