Teledyne FLIR Defense

Teledyne FLIR Defense is a specialized defense and security division of Teledyne FLIR LLC, focused on providing advanced thermal imaging, electro-optical/infrared (EO/IR) sensor systems, unmanned platforms, and integrated surveillance solutions to military, government, and allied forces worldwide. With roots in FLIR Systems (founded in 1978) and subsequent acquisition by Teledyne Technologies in 2021, the division leverages decades of expertise in intelligent sensing, ruggedized optics, and unmanned systems to support critical decision-making in high-risk and mission-critical environments.

The Defense segment designs and manufactures a broad portfolio of products ranging from long-range stabilized imaging systems such as SeaFLIR and BRITE Star series for naval and ground ISR applications, to lightweight thermal weapon sights, unattended ground sensors, and portable detection systems for chemical, biological, and explosive threats. Teledyne FLIR Defense also develops unmanned ISR platforms for remote asset delivery, situational awareness, and infrastructure assessment, ensuring operators can detect, track, and respond to threats with precision and reliability.

A key differentiator for the division is its integration of advanced precision optics, multispectral sensors, and real-time processing capabilities that enhance operational effectiveness across land, maritime, and airborne domains. Teledyne FLIR Defense products are widely fielded by U.S. and allied defense forces, supporting everything from border security and maritime interdiction to search-and-rescue missions under extreme environmental conditions.

The division continues to grow its global presence, including expansion into the Middle East and North Africa with a newly planned regional headquarters in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, reflecting its strategy to localize innovation and deepen strategic partnerships. Leadership emphasized stronger collaboration with government ministries, regional innovators, and defense agencies to foster sovereign technology ecosystems while advancing autonomous systems and AI capabilities for future defense applications.

• Black Hornet 3/4:
  Pocket-sized nano UAV reconnaissance systems for personal soldier ISR, widely used by military units globally.
• Centaur:
  A medium-sized rugged tactical UGV with advanced sensors and long-reach arm for EOD, reconnaissance, and hazardous mission support.
• PackBot 525:
  A rugged man-transportable UGV with HD cameras, rangefinder, manipulator arm and modular sensors.
• Kobra 725:
  A heavy-duty modular UGV with powerful manipulation, rugged mobility, and extensible payload support for EOD, CBRN, and reconnaissance missions.
• SUGV 325:
  A portable, modular unmanned ground vehicle with advanced sensors and manipulator for military ISR, EOD, and CBRN missions.

• Thermal Imaging & EO/IR Sensing:
  Advanced multispectral thermal cameras with target detection, tracking, and geolocation functions.
• Unmanned ISR Platforms:
  Nano-UAVs and UGVs for reconnaissance in hazardous or inaccessible environments.
• Ruggedized Defense Optics:
  Precision optics and stabilized gimbal sensors for all-weather, day/night operations.
• Portable Detection & Hazard Response:
  Field-deployable sensors for chemical, biological, and explosive threat assessment.

Teledyne FLIR Defense operates within the rapidly growing global defense and security market, supported by decades of engineering leadership in thermal imaging and sensor systems. Its integration into Teledyne Technologies’ broader technology portfolio, a stable public company with diversified revenues and strong fiscal performance, provides strategic financial backing and R&D scale uncommon among standalone defense robotics firms.

The division’s robust contract wins — including significant multi-million-dollar awards from the U.S. Army, Navy, Coast Guard, and allied defense forces — reflect consistent demand for high-performance sensing and autonomous ISR solutions. These awards underscore trust in FLIR Defense’s ability to deliver mission-critical systems that improve situational awareness and force protection in complex operational theaters.

Teledyne FLIR Defense’s global expansion strategy, including localized operations in the Middle East and support for sovereign technology ecosystems, positions it well to capture long-term defense modernization and regional security investment trends. As autonomous sensing, AI-enhanced systems, and unmanned platforms become increasingly central to defense doctrine, FLIR Defense’s deep technology base and broad product suite provide resilience and relevance across multiple mission domains.