Thermal Beacon Ltd. – a leader in the field of high-end, innovative thermal IFF (Identification Friend or Foe) emitters – presents two (2) optical IFF thermal systems, the MS OMR II c and MK-IV, that distinguish between enemy and friendly forces. In a recent experiment, the MS OMR II c system identified targets from an altitude of 18 km.
Thermal Beacons are infrared emitters being used as an identification device in the thermal spectrum region (mid-IR and long-IR) for use with operatives, vehicles, yachts, pilots, police SWAT teams, search and rescue, emergency services and mountain rescue teams. Designed for outdoor operation, military demands and standards, features include a solid state optical IFF beacon, a compact beacon for thermal observation, and a long working range.
Thermal Beacons radiate in the thermal spectrum (8-12 µm and most efficiently at 3-5 µm) and do not emit radiation in the visible or the near-infrared region. They are used as an identification device in the thermal spectrum region, for persons or vehicles. The MS (Multi Spectrum) version allows the user to control the spectrum of radiation from only the thermal region, only the near-infrared region (for image intensifiers and SLS), or both thermal and near-infrared regions simultaneously.
The MS OMR II c is mounted on a fighter’s helmet, marking it, and thus distinguishing it from enemy forces. The MK-IV is installed on buildings, vehicles and sailing vessels, enabling accurate identification by friendly forces. Directional, omnidirectional, and half-sphere, the patented systems are available at 3-12 µm and invisible to GEN I+II+III image intensifiers, designed for MIL-STD-810G.
According to Daniel Daeshevitz, Thermal Beacon’s Marketing Manager “Both systems are combat-proven, fully integrated and in use by several NATO forces. The small and compact systems are inconspicuous (MS OMR II c), and don’t hamper the soldier’s activities. The MS OMR II c’s capability to detect from an 18-km altitude increases the fighters’ protection in combat conditions and avoids errors of identification, thus providing an additional layer of defense that saves lives in battle.”
In addition to these two systems, the company will also present laser marking and illumination systems for various wavelengths, installed on weapons, observation systems and payloads with a marking capability of up to 30 km.
