French DGA Tests Thales' Infrared Optics for Rafale F4.2 Upgrade

The French Directorate General of Armaments (DGA) has revealed ongoing testing of Thales' new infrared optics for the Infra-Red Search and Track (IRST) system Front Sector Optronics (FSO), slated to equip the Rafale F4.2 aircraft of the French air force and navy.

“The DGA is carrying out tests on the new infrared optics of the Infra Red Search and Track system Front Sector Optronics (FSO) from Thales which will equip the Rafale F4.2 of French air force and navy,” DGA confirmed in a social media post on Wednesday.

Thales' FSO system is designed to enhance the collaborative combat capabilities of the Rafale fighter jet. Equipped with advanced passive, long-range detection and identification sensors, pilots will be able to detect, track, and engage targets using adversaries' infrared signatures.

The FSO system boasts a dual-band feature, providing unique tracking capabilities both during the day, through a TV band, and at night, through an IR band. As a passive system, the IRST (Infrared Search and Track) function ensures that pilots can conduct target searches without emitting signals, reducing the risk of detection.

Thales' FSO-IRST function is expected to bolster the Rafale's airspace protection capabilities, particularly when used in high-resolution Electro Optic (EO)/IR mode, enabling positive target identification.

The Rafale fighter jet is undergoing significant upgrades. The recently qualified F4.1 standard introduced several advancements, including the Scorpion helmet-mounted display, upgrades to air-to-air missiles, and enhanced sensor capabilities.

Now, with the F4.2 upgrade, the focus shifts towards connected warfare. New systems such as advanced datalinks and digital radio software promise seamless communication and data sharing, crucial for joint operations.

Among the notable enhancements in the F4.2 standard is the integration of Thales' Front Sector Optronics, offering improved infrared optics. This upgrade aims to provide Rafale's sensors with sharper images, enhancing its night identification capabilities.