Navratna defence PSU the Bharat Electronics Ltd (BEL) signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Elbit Systems Electro-optics-Elop Ltd, Israel, for the joint production of compact multi-purpose advance stabilisation system (CoMPASS) for naval helicopter applications, at Aero India 2013 in Bengaluru.

The MoU was signed by H.N. Ramakrishna, Director (Marketing), BEL, and Adi Dar, Executive VP, Managing Director of Elbit Systems Electro-optics-Elop Ltd, Israel. Amol Newaskar, Director (Other Units), BEL, Roy Zentner, Vice President, Business Development and Marketing, Elbit Systems Electro-optics-Elop, and Neri Zin, Senior Director, EO ISTAR Business Unit, Airborne EO and Laser Systems, Elbit Systems Electrooptics-Elop, were present along with other General Managers of BEL.

The CoMPASS is a day-and-night surveillance system that includes a colour TV daylight camera, third generation 3-5 µm FLIR sensor, laser target designator and rangefinder (LTDRF) and automatic tracking capabilities, as well as command and control capabilities. It is distinguished by a wide variety of interfaces, enabling integration with various aircraft/helicopter systems, such as mission computer, fire control, radar, GPS, data downlink and helmet-mounted tracking systems. Its small dimensions, low weight, high level of stabilisation and coverage angles make it an optimal choice for long-range, day-and-night surveillance, target tracking, etc.

CoMPASS is the most advanced payload version of its family, featuring reduced weight, high degree of modularity and flexibility, spacesaving packaging and advanced operational and video processing features. CoMPASS has been nominated for 56 naval utility helicopter programme of the Indian Navy.

BEL has recently completed transfer of technology for indigenous production of CoMPASS in India. BEL will provide Indian users with local production and maintenance support. CoMPASS was already selected and installed in the Indian Army Aviation and Air Force versions of advanced light helicopter of HAL.