Frontex to use Hensoldt's Argos-II HD electro-optical infra-red system.

According to a press release published by Hensodlt on August 26, 2021, in the frame of a technology pilot program, HENSOLDT’s ARGOS-II HD electro-optical infra-red (eoir) system will be deployed on two tethered aerostats and deliver extensive security surveillance.
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HENSOLDT’s Argos II HD thermal imaging camera will be deployed on tethered aerostats from CNIM Air Space. (Picture source: CNIM)

Leading-edge sensor technology developed by HENSOLDT will strengthen Frontex maritime surveillance in the Mediterranean Sea and contribute to the protection of Europe’s strategic south-eastern border.

The project is operated by Frontex – the European Border and Coast Guard Agency – which has the mandate to safeguard the external borders of the European Union and ensure the freedom and territorial integrity of member states.

The ARGOS-II HD forms part of an integrated turn-key solution that consists of advanced sensors that are fitted on two aerostats, provided by CNIM Air Space, tethered on Greek islands in the Aegean Sea. At altitudes of several hundred metres above the host islands the ARGOS-II covers a range of up to 40 km and can detect both large and small vessels and monitor activities with exceptional clarity and detail.

It is in operation 24/7,day and night, even in inclement weather. The continuous zoom thermal imaging camera records the images and transmit video and data in real time to base stations on the ground.

The ARGOS-II HD system can be fitted onto fixed-wing aircraft, helicopters, unmanned aerial vehicles and aerostats. It is used extensively in border protection, search and rescue operations, maritime patrols, law enforcement and asset protection. It is already widely used in the security and surveillance environments, including by the German Federal Police where it is deployed in anti-smuggling, illegal trafficking, and border security operations.

EO/IR (Electro-Optical/Infra-Red) systems are imaging systems used for military or law enforcement applications which include both visible and infrared sensors. Because they span both visible and infrared wavelengths, EO/IR systems provide total situational awareness both day and night and in low light conditions.