The French defense procurement agency (DGA) has selected Sagem to deliver 1,175 JIM LR2 ‘new generation’ long range multi-function infrared binoculars and 500 remote-control tactical terminals for the French Army. The contract is part of DGA’s “JIR-TTA-NG” infrared binocular acquisition program for all French military services.
As an integral part of the digital battlefield, JIM LR 2 will be interoperable with the command and coordination systems used in the FELIN (Fantassin à Equipements et Liaisons Intégrés (or Dismounted Soldier System) integrated suite for dismounted soldiers.
JIM LR 2 binoculars are designed for threat detection, precision target designation and intelligence gathering for front-line and command units.
The new model is based on operational experience gained with the Sagem JIM LR (Long Range). It also relies on the existing logistical network established to support the JIM LR in service. This latest contract now brings the total number of JIM LR units in service or on order by armed and security forces to 4,500, including more than 2,000 by French armed forces.
The LR 2 model is designed as a portable all-in-one unit, JIM LR 2 combines day/night (thermal) vision, rangefinding, laser pointer, compass, GPS and data transmission. Both systems share common ergonomic design, with the LR 2 model offering several improvements such as increased detection and identification range, increased target designation range, enabled by a more powerful target illuminator, and an image-fusion mode, combining visible (daytime) and infrared channels enabling the observer to ‘see through’ obscurant smoke, haze, dust or camouflage. The system also integrates in-line recorder and the ability to download images via USB port. The system can be operated by compact, remote control systems.
Reflecting the combined expertise of Sagem and its Swiss subsidiary Vectronix, JIM LR are already deployed by several NATO countries.
