The Israeli air force has awarded a contract to Elop Electro-Optics Industries (El-Op) for the supply of the Laser Obstacle Ranging and Display System (LORD) to equip an unspecified number of its fleet.
LORD is a laser radar capable of detecting obstacles such as wires and antennas and can provide real-time alerts to pilots when flying at low altitude and in adverse weather conditions. The system offers both video and audio warnings, giving information about the obstacle's shape and precise location.
The laser radar operation is based on fast scanning of the field of view, carried out by an EyeSafe narrow laser beam, creating an image that is accessible in the cockpit.
El-Op, a subsidiary of Elbit Systems, says the technology offers significant safety benefits for both day and night flights and can be installed on civil or military helicopters. Objects can be detected 700m (2,300ft) away, even in extreme conditions.
Elbit Systems chief executive Joseph Ackerman says: "LORD is based on a unique technology developed with the accumulated know-how, expertise and experience that El-Op has gained in the area of lasers and signal processing. The acquisition of LORD by the Israel air force is another step in establishing our position as a leader in laser technology."
Source: Flight Daily News
