State-of-the-art sensors at sea help Navies maintain their information superiority.

MEOS II, Airbus DS Optronics’ Maritime Electro-Optical System, is a fresh appeal to those naval and maritime fleets that need an integrated approach to improve maritime observation and monitoring. While much has changed as maritime security evolved over the past several years, the company developed a solution that is even more relevant today. It supports efforts to combat both terrorism and piracy at sea.

MEOS II is offered as a multifunctional system. It is available in two versions: A naval surveillance system (MEOS II S) and a naval observation and targeting system (MEOS II N). Both systems can be operated as a stand-alone unit or connected to legacy radar or Combat Management Systems (CMS). Sources at Airbus DS Optronics noted that the latter can only be accessed by the N version, however. Both versions may be fitted with an optional video target tracking system, according to the company.

Thanks to third-generation thermal imaging technology, the sensor system helps ship crews detect suspicious speedboats when they are approaching the ship. The earlier the captain is aware of a threat, the sooner he can alert other units or forces, and the greater is the ship’s chance of evading pirate or terrorist activity. Additionally, MEOS II helps rescuer teams pinpoint and reach people in distress at sea and on inland waterways, with its thermal imaging sensor offering optimum views day and night through fog, haze, and smoke. MEOS’ built-in eye-safe, high-pulse laser rangefinder is capable of determining the precise distance to an observed object or person. Among other benefits, the sensor system is able to communicate with diverse Control and Command (C2) systems, and it easily connects to integrated bridge and CMS. This is facilitated via Internet.

Airbus DS Optronics constantly is striving to strengthen its role as a global leader in optronic systems. Developing the next generation of MEOS – MEOS III – is most critical to maritime security as potential adversaries threaten to overtake and surpass the technological edge held by major Navies or Coast Guards. Therefore, modern shipboard sensors like the MEOS III currently under development are more and more relevant to security issues. Looking to stay on the cutting edge, the company is now reorganising its optronic and radar/Electronic Warfare (EW) business to focus more on long-term research and developing closer ties to naval customers.

Stefan Nitschke