Sweden-based Lumibird Photonics has secured a contract with Saab to supply 57 VIDAR laser rangefinders for the Royal Danish Navy’s frigate fleet.
The systems will be delivered in 2025 and 2026 and integrated into Saab’s CEROS naval fire control systems used aboard Danish frigates, providing real-time, high-frequency distance measurement capabilities.
This improves threat tracking and precision engagement of naval guns and missile launchers against fast-moving targets like drones or surface vessels in complex environments.
“This new success with Saab confirms the versatility and technical maturity of our VIDAR rangefinder,” said Marc LE Flohic, CEO of the Lumibird Group.
“We are proud to see our technology equipping NATO vessels and supporting the Danish Ministry of Defence in its mission to ensure maritime security.”
Meanwhile, the CEO of Lumibird Photonics Sweden, Carina Harnesk, noted that the company sees “strong potential for future orders from additional users with similar operational needs.”
VIDAR is a compact, rugged laser rangefinder that can be integrated into ground-based, airborne, and naval platforms.
It features diode-pumped erbium-glass laser technology for compactness, eye safety, and high performance.
With a maximum configurable range of 32 kilometers (20 miles), it delivers precise targeting with a range accuracy under 4 meters (13 feet) and a resolution of 1 meter (3.3 feet).
The laser rangefinder has a pulse repetition of up to 12.5 Hertz, and is housed in a sealed 318 x 145 x 141 millimeter (12.5 x 5.7 x 5.6 inch) body, weighing under 5.6 kilograms (12.3 pounds).
VIDAR is built for harsh operational conditions with no moving parts, no fans, and no cooling fluid required, reducing maintenance time.
Rated as an eye-safe Class 1M laser, the rangefinder is suited for both live missions and peacetime training.
Vidar is probably the most advanced laser range-finder in its class on the market. It is designed to be
an integral part of advanced weapon or surveillance systems in naval and ground applications.
The laser rangefinder has excellent performance with an instrumented range of up to 32 km with a
pulse repetition of up to 12.5 Hz and with full single shot performance.
Vidar is designed and verified to sustain longterm use in harsh environments where reliability is crucial.
It has an all solid-state laser transmitter with no moving parts, no fans and no cooling liquid bringing
the required maintenance to a minimum. Vidar has an environmentally sealed and stable housing with external surface treatment for demanding conditions.
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