Initial Aim is to Support Polish Mi-24 Fleet Modernisation
Poland’s PCO SA and Israel’s Rafael Advanced Defense Systems have signed an MoU covering co-production of TOPLITE electro-optical (EO) systems in Poland, the company’s announced on 22 April.
The companies have been cooperating in the supply of EO heads for Polish GLUSZEC helicopters since 2007 and the primary purpose of the strengthened cooperation is to support the modernisation programme for the nation’s Mi-24 attack helicopter fleet. Under the MoU, PCO will become the sole supplier of TOPLITE systems for customers in Poland and will also become part of the Rafael international supply chain for other programmes.
TOPLITE is an advanced multi-sensor, multi-purpose, highly stabilised EO/ISR solution for the homeland security and defence markets. It is used for a variety of applications on diverse platforms for intelligence/data collection, surveillance, reconnaissance and weapons aiming. Its underlying technology is mature, proven and fielded in over 20 countries in all branches of the armed forces. It incorporates up to seven sensors for detection, tracking, identification, and targeting.
TOPLITE EOS enables automatic or manual monitoring and investigation using its advanced control unit, situational awareness and image processing package. It is derived from the LITENING targeting and navigation pod, of which Rafael has supplied over 1,600 units, and features extensive growth potential, enabling its continued use for years in a changing operational environment. This growth potential will be realised with advanced sensor integration and unique image enhancement techniques.
TOPLITE is an integral part of Rafael’s air defence and naval systems: it is fully integrated with the SPIKE family of missiles, launched from helicopters and other platforms.