Thales will manufacture and supply ten sets of Sophie XF Type longrange cooled thermal imagers to the German armed forces under a new agreement announced on February 25. The contract was awarded by the Federal Office of Bundeswehr Equipment, Information Technology and In-Service Support (BAAINBw), with delivery expected during the autumn of 2013.

Sophie XF is designed to complement around 100 previous systems used by the German armed forces. The hand-held, multi-functional thermal imaging device features laser range finder, daylight camera and position sensor (GPS receiver and digital compass). The continuous optical zoom makes the high optical performance capability very easy to utilise. The system also features a distinctive multitude of measurement and recording options, low-weight, longer-life batteries and reduced noise generation.

According to the company, the German armed forces will use this longrange imager for surveillance, target acquisition and identification and determining the coordinates of these targets at night and in adverse visibility conditions. The order also includes logistical support, documentation and training.

Holger Brandt, Vice President Defence & Security Systems, Thales Deutschland, said: “We are delighted with this follow-up procurement order, which will provide the user with an innovative, user-friendly device with a wide range of applications.”