FLIR Systems is presenting two-high performance ground surveillance tools for border security and force protection: the LTV-X Light Tactical Vehicle (LTV) and the FLIR Ranger R6SS portable radar.
The LTV-X is a rugged, tactical reconnaissance vehicle that can be transported inside a Bell Boeing V-22 OSPREY for rapid deployment in support of urgent operational requirements. Featuring multiple integrated sensors such as the TacFLIR 280-HD multispectral ISR turret (full HD, lighter than the sensor used before) and the Ranger R6SS (solid state) Ground Surveillance Radar, the LTV-X also includes an onboard command and control system that enables full control, exploitation, and dissemination of real-time imagery and target tracking between deployed mobile and fixed assets. The LTV-X also offers near-silent operation when stationary. As a mobility platform a Polaris MRZE (system weight 1,163kg) is used, but as it is a kit system it fits nearly all other 4x4 vehicles with a flatbed. And the 12 feet mast is foldable to be stored during movement, that takes no more than 1 minute and 20 seconds. One person as a combination driver/operator is enough for operations – when sensors used stationary. The configuration shown at SOFIC offers an extra 300lbs payload, so it is good for four fully equipped soldiers. Other sensors can easily be integrated as the whole system architecture is plug & play.
Depending on mission objectives, operators can network multiple vehicles, sensors, and even Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) assets with a central command center to give great situational awareness and responsiveness. The LTV-X also offers a wireless system that provides target bearing and geo-referenced coordinates to other personnel, vehicles, and command and control systems for precise target location. Other features include a laser rangefinder, laser pointer, illuminator, and battery-operated quiet mode. For demonstration a Prox Dynamics’ PD-100 BLACK HORNET Personal Reconnaissance System (PRS) is fully integrated. In the future it can be even bigger UAVs.
The Ranger R6SS ground-surveillance radar detects and tracks personnel and vehicles within a 15 kilometer range, with a low false alarm rate, and is designed to perform in the most demanding environments, including X-band operation for superior rain penetration. Featuring advanced Digital Beam-Forming (DBF) and a high-speed refresh rate, the FLIR Ranger R6SS offers superior target detection, acquisition, and classification as well as clutter rejection. With built-in North-finding and GPS capabilities, it can be mounted on a vehicle or dismounted and carried for artillery and mortar fire correction.
“The Ranger R6SS and LTV-X are FLIR’s latest innovations in support of mission-critical ground surveillance, force protection, and border security that leverage our unique Commercially Developed, Military Qualified model,” Kevin Tucker, Vice President and General Manager of FLIR Surveillance, told MT. “Both products are designed to maximize detection, responsiveness, and reliability in situations that demand the highest performance. We look forward to deploying these new products to the men and women who help keep borders around the world safe.”
The whole Ranger R6SS systems comes in two bagbacks from Mystery Ranch, and has a weight of 33.7 kg (16.2 kg + 17.5 kg), so it can be transported by two soldiers. The system is controlled by a Panasonic Toughpad – configuration and receiving the sensor data. It can ran on batteries (2.8 kg + 0.9 kg charger), solar power or fuel cells.
