Sagem VAMPIR NG infrared search & track system chosen for Australia’s new-generation Air Warfare Destroyers (AWD)

Paris, December 16, 2008

Sagem Défense Sécurité (SAFRAN Group) has won a contract from Raytheon Australia, acting on behalf of Australia’s Air Warfare Destroyer (AWD) Alliance in an international call for tenders, to supply VAMPIR NG* infrared surveillance systems for three Air Warfare Destroyers to be deployed by the Royal Australian Navy.

The contract includes an option to provide this system for a fourth AWD.

Vampir NG is a high-performance infrared search and track (IRST) system, designed to cope with both symmetrical and asymmetrical threats, at sea and along coastlines. Calling on state-of-the-art image processing technology, it deploys third-generation gyrostabilized infrared sensors for maximum efficiency.

Sagem’s Vampir NG is integrated in the ship’s own combat system, enhancing the destroyer’s self-defense capabilities through automatic 360° tracking of aircraft and missiles.

The system’s high performance and its cost efficiency ratio were key considerations in the Air Warfare Destroyers (AWD) Alliance choice, in particular its long detection range, its friendly MMI, and its quick acquisition capability for all types of threats, from sea sea-skimming missiles to small high speed  craft. 

This is the latest business win for Sagem Défense Sécurité in Australia, following Vampir NG orders for eight Anzac class frigates and for the future LHD (Landing Helicopter Dock) ships. Sagem Défense Sécurité is also supplying Sigma 40 XP laser gyro inertial navigation system to modernize six Collins class submarines for the Royal Australian Navy.

* Veille Air-Mer Panoramique Infrarouge Nouvelle Génération – New Generation Infrared Panoramic Air-Sea Surveillance


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Sagem Défense Sécurité is a high-tech company in the SAFRAN Group. It is a world or European leader in solutions and services in optronics, avionics and critical software for the civilian and military markets. Sagem Défense Sécurité is the European No. 1 and worldwide No.3 in INSs for aeronautic, naval and land applications. It is also the worldwide No.1 in helicopter flight controls and the European No.1 in optronic and tactical UAV systems. Present across the globe via the SAFRAN Group’s international network, Sagem Défense Sécurité and its subsidiaries employ 6000 people in Europe and the US. For more information: www.sagem-ds.com

Contact
Philippe Wodka-Gallien
Presse relations
Tel.: +33 (0)1 58 11 19 49
E-Mail : philippe.wodka-gallien@sagem.com