Teledyne FLIR Defense has secured a $74.2-million contract to enhance the imaging systems of US Coast Guard MH-60 Jayhawk and MH-65 Dolphin helicopters.
The deal covers the supply of over 125 Electro-Optic Sensor System – Modernized (ESS-M) units, which feature a full high-definition (HD) sensor suite and modern display tailor-made for rotary wing aircraft integration.
The solution incorporates advanced processing technology and software enhancements that accommodate future updates for evolving missions.
FLIR noted that the ESS-M provides daylight, low-light, and infrared imagery critical to coast guard operations, particularly in law enforcement, search and rescue, and maritime resource security.
The capability also supports coastal patrol, drug and migrant interdiction, port and waterway protection, and other broader mission sets covered by the force’s Jayhawk and Dolphin fleets.
Shipment of the ESS-Ms will begin late this year and run until 2030.
“The significant updates through ESS-M will enable the US Coast Guard to stay on technology’s cutting edge while conducting its wide range of key maritime operations,” Teledyne FLIR Defense President Dr. JihFen Lei stated.
“We’re proud to extend our history of support and look forward to building our relationship across all mission areas.”
Since 2005, FLIR has been distributing and servicing legacy ESS systems for the US Coast Guard’s medium- and short-range recovery platforms.
Recent Contracts
Teledyne FLIR accepted a deal in November to supply thermal imaging cameras for US Army short-range reconnaissance drones.
Two months earlier, the company received a contract to provide its airborne surveillance cameras for the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force’s Mitsubishi SH-60L helicopters.
The firm signed another project in July to support the US Army in distributing weapon sights for a NATO partner.
The army also contracted Teledyne FLIR in March 2024 for several clip-on thermal weapon sights.
