Hanwha Systems will supply electro-optical observation devices (EO·IR) to the Navy. The company plans to enhance navigation capabilities during nighttime and adverse weather conditions by applying technology previously used in the Army's light armed helicopters to naval vessels.
On August 14, Hanwha Systems announced that it signed a contract with the Defense Technology Quality Agency last month to begin the 'Electro-Optical Observation Device (EO·IR) Installation Project for Support and Rescue Vessels.'
This initiative is part of the 'Maximizing Existing Power Performance Project,' aimed at quickly addressing issues in weapon systems that are already operational or in production.
The EO·IR devices will be installed on a total of four vessels, including one support vessel, two surface rescue vessels, and one submarine rescue vessel currently operated by the Navy. The EO·IR technology will be utilized to identify surrounding terrain and structures even in challenging visibility conditions such as nighttime or inclement weather.
Combat vessels are typically equipped with electro-optical tracking systems (EOTS) for targeting and control, allowing for visual confirmation of surface targets during nighttime or adverse weather. In contrast, non-combat vessels like support and rescue ships lacked such equipment during their construction, leading to difficulties in safe navigation and operational execution in limited visibility.
This project will incorporate Hanwha Systems' 'Target Acquisition and Designation System (TADS)' technology, which was developed for light armed helicopters. TADS is a key electro-optical device that supports reconnaissance, target detection, identification, and engagement. It meets stringent military requirements for operational environments ranging from minus 35 degrees to plus 55 degrees Celsius, as well as indirect lightning conditions, and has passed military specification compliance assessments and mass production system validations.
Hanwha Systems aims to leverage its existing defense standards to expedite the operational deployment within two years. The acquired surveillance footage will be integrated with operational video transmission systems to enhance command and control efficiency by enabling real-time sharing with command centers and friendly vessels.
Yoo Moon-ki, head of Hanwha Systems' Marine Business Division, stated, "We will do our utmost to proactively identify the military's requirements and provide optimal solutions to maximize the performance of existing forces."
Meanwhile, Hanwha Systems has been developing and supplying electro-optical equipment to the military for approximately 40 years. Earlier this year, the company signed a business agreement with Canada's PV Labs to advance electro-optical and infrared (EO·IR) sensor technology, marking an expansion of its business.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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