Elbit Systems Electro-optics-Elop Ltd. from Israel and Bharat Electronics Ltd (BEL) of India will jointly develop a navalized, stabilised, multi-sensor electro-optical observation system based on ElOp’s ‘Compact Multi Purpose Advance Stabilisation System’ (CoMPASS). Sofar CoMPASS has been used primarily for airborne applications in unmanned aerial systems (UAS), aircraft and helicopters. The CoMPASS has been selected for the new Indian attack helicopter ‘Rudra’, where CoMPASS provides the primary EO sensor for the crea and weapon system. CoMPASS has also been nominated for 56 Naval Utility Helicopters to be procured for the Indian Navy. The companies signed the MoU on Feb 7, 2013 at the Aero India 2013 airshow.
The CoMPASS is a day-and-night surveillance system that includes a colour TV daylight camera, 3rd Generation 3-5 µm FLIR sensor, Laser Target Designator and Rangefinder (LTDRF) and automatic tracking capabilities, as well as command and control capabilities.
CoMPASS is designed with 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, fire control applications and search and rescue. The system includes major components such as Stabilised Turret Assembly, Grip Interface Box and Left & Right Grips.
The MoU was signed by Mr H N Ramakrishna, Director (Marketing), BEL, and Mr Adi Dar, Executive VP, Managing Director of Elbit Systems Electro-optics-Elop Ltd., Israel. Mr Amol Newaskar, Director (Other Units), BEL, Mr Roy Zentner, Vice President, Business Development & Marketing, Elbit Systems Electro-optics-Elop, and Mr Neri Zin, Senior Director, EO ISTAR Business Unit, Airborne EO & Laser Systems, Elbit Systems Electro-optics-Elop, were present along with other General Managers of BEL.
