// UNMANNED SYSTEMS AND NEXT-GEN WARFARE TERM
Imaging Infrared
Imaging Infrared (IIR) is a sensor technology that creates a thermal picture of an object by detecting its heat signature. This allows a missile to visually identify and home in on specific parts of a target, like a jet engine, for highly accurate tracking.
TECHNICAL DEFINITION
Imaging Infrared (IIR) is an advanced electro-optical (EO/IR) sensor system used in missile seekers for autonomous terminal guidance, employing a focal plane array (FPA) to convert thermal energy into a high-resolution image for precise target acquisition, discrimination, and tracking.
BACKGROUND
Infrared thermography (IRT), also known as thermal imaging, is a measurement and imaging technique in which a thermal camera detects infrared radiation originating from the surface of objects. This radiation has two main components: thermal emission from the object's surface, which depends on its temperature and emissivity, and reflected radiation from surrounding sources. When the object is not (fully) opaque, i.e. exhibits nonzero transmissivity at the cameras operating wavelengths, transmitted radiation also contributes to the observed signal. The result is a visible image called a thermogram. Thermal cameras most commonly operate in the long-wave infrared (LWIR) range ; less frequently, systems designed for the mid-wave infrared (MWIR) range are used.
READ MORE ON WIKIPEDIASYNONYMS & ALIASES
- IIR
- Thermal Imaging Seeker
- Infrared Homing
- IR Seeker
- Focal Plane Array Seeker
- Thermal Imager
USAGE NOTE
Unlike older 'reticle' seekers that just point to the hottest spot, IIR creates a detailed thermal picture, enabling superior discrimination against countermeasures like flares.
DEVELOPERS
Organizations developing technology related to Imaging Infrared.
A world leader in the design and production of thermal imaging cameras, components, and imaging sensors. They provide a vast array of infrared systems for airborne, land, and maritime military applications, including surveillance, targeting, and threat detection.
Through its Raytheon division, RTX develops advanced sensor systems, including Forward Looking Infrared (FLIR) systems for targeting pods (e.g., ATFLIR), missile guidance systems with infrared seekers (e.g., Javelin, Stinger), and space-based infrared surveillance systems.
A major defense contractor that produces a wide range of electro-optical/infrared (EO/IR) systems. Their products include thermal weapon sights, night vision devices, and sophisticated airborne and space-based reconnaissance and surveillance sensor payloads.
Develops and integrates advanced infrared sensor systems for threat detection and countermeasures on military aircraft, ships, and ground vehicles. Their products include thermal imaging systems for situational awareness and targeting.
Manufactures advanced sensor systems, including the LITENING advanced targeting pod which uses infrared imaging for target identification. They are also a key developer of space-based infrared systems for missile warning and defense, such as the Space-Based Infrared System (SBIRS).
A U.S.-based defense contractor specializing in advanced sensor technology. They are a leading provider of uncooled thermal imaging technology used in weapon sights, driver's vision enhancers for ground vehicles, and various surveillance systems.
An Israeli defense electronics company that develops a wide array of electro-optical and thermal imaging systems for airborne, land, and naval applications, including targeting pods, helmet-mounted displays, and long-range surveillance systems.
A U.S. Army research and development organization. Its Night Vision and Electronic Sensors Directorate (NVESD) is the primary government lab for research and development of advanced electro-optical and infrared sensor technologies for soldiers.