FLIR imaging system for Super Tucanos

PORTLAND, Ore., April 18 (UPI)

FLIR Systems Inc.'s BRITE Star DP advanced imaging system is being integrated onto aircraft for Afghanistan under the U.S. Air Force LAS program.

The Brazilian aircraft, the A-29 Super Tucano, will be assembled in the United States under the Air Force's Light Air Support contract awarded in February to the Sierra Nevada Corp. and Embraer of Brazil.

FLIR said as part of that award, it received a $22 million order for its system. Delivery of BRITE Star systems will begin in June and continue through next year.

"Being selected to provide our highly advanced imaging systems for the LAS program is indicative of the growing diversification of the customers, regions, and platforms that we serve," said Earl Lewis, president and chief executive officer of FLIR. "We have a proven ability to provide state-of-the-art technologies that are critical to protecting people and are pleased to be able to continue our success in the airborne market."

An initial 20 A-29s will be supplied to the Afghanistan army air corps for flight training, reconnaissance and light air support (combat) missions.

More than 88 percent of the Super Tucano's parts are being supplied by U.S. companies.