Elbit Systems has introduced the next-generation version of its Advanced Multi-Sensor Payload System (AMPS NG) for UAVs (unmanned aerial vehicles), which adds Shortwave Infrared (SWIR) technology to the existing CCD (Charge-Coupled Device) TV sensors, with a unique dual FLIR sensor design.
The new system is housed in Elbit’s two line-replacement unit (LRU) AMPS pod, and provides enhanced observation performance in limited visibility conditions, using its SWIR channel to perform even in the presence of high humidity, smoke or dust.
In recent flight tests that were conducted in Israel, the new system was able to produce high-resolution imagery of a football game with its MWIR channel from a distance of 25km, and aerial target tracking of a Hermes 900 UAV with its SWIR channel from dozens of kilometers away. AMPS NG is fully qualified to extreme operational conditions and is also currently in the final integration and flight test stages onboard an unmanned aircraft for an undisclosed European air force.
As with the legacy AMPS, the new system is optimized to enhance and increase the throughput of target intelligence production facilitated by autonomous navigation with an inertial system and GPS, as well as highly accurate geo-pointing and geo-location capabilities. AMPS NG is also suitable for a range of airborne intelligence stand-off and stand-in mission profiles and is ideal for both MALE and HALE (Medium/High Altitude Long Endurance) unmanned aircraft.
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