Forward Looking Infra Red (FLIR) Systems has announced the placing of a $12.4 million (£8.1 million) order from the US Army for its innovative Star SAFIRE II systems, which can accommodate up to five different sensors in a single gimbal.
More than 200 Star SAFIRE systems are already installed on US Army helicopters which are used for medical evacuations.
The new order adds to this total, with the potential to equip Medevac helicopters with thermal imaging, low-light television, ultra-long-range spotting, laser illumination and laser range-finding capabilities.
All of the sensors are housed in a single five-axis gimbal-mounted casing, designed to offer maximum stability during operation.
FLIR president and chief executive officer Earl R Lewis says: "This order, a continuation of FLIR's long-term partnership with the US Army on Black Hawk operations, demonstrates the value of our systems to support critical lifesaving Medevac missions."
Delivery of the units is expected within the next 12 months, with manufacture taking place at FLIR's facility in Wilsonville, Oregon.