Teledyne FLIR Defense has announced the delivery of its Star SAFIRE 380-HLD multi-spectral imaging systems to the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF). The contract, valued at up to $20.8 million, will see the delivery of ten systems over the next three years.
海上自衛隊, CC BY 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
The Star SAFIRE 380-HLD is a high-performance airborne surveillance system designed for intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, and targeting missions. It offers ultra-long-range capabilities, superior image stabilization, and laser designation and rangefinding.
The JMSDF will integrate the Star SAFIRE 380-HLD systems into its SH-60L helicopters, which are upgraded versions of the Sikorsky SH-60. The SH-60L features an updated engine transmission, an ultra-high-speed datalink, and improved anti-submarine warfare (ASW) systems.
The development of the SH-60L was initiated in 2015 by the Japan Ministry of Defense (MoD) to replace the JMSDF’s older SH-60K helicopters. The SH-60L program began in 2015 with a contract valued at $63 million. The first flight of the SH-60L was conducted successfully in May 2021, and MHI delivered two prototype aircraft to the MoD in September of the same year.
The integration of the Star SAFIRE 380-HLD systems into the SH-60L will further enhance the JMSDF’s capabilities for anti-submarine and anti-surface warfare missions. The systems will provide the JMSDF with advanced surveillance capabilities, allowing them to detect and track threats more effectively.
“Growing threats in the region have moved Japan to improve its defense and security capabilities, especially those designed to safeguard its territorial waters and outlying territories,” said Robert Moss, senior director of business development, Asia Pacific, at Teledyne FLIR Defense.
The delivery of the Star SAFIRE 380-HLD systems to the JMSDF is a significant milestone for both Teledyne FLIR Defense and the JMSDF. The systems will provide the JMSDF with a critical capability to protect Japan’s territorial waters and respond to emerging threats.
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