The British Army is upgrading its night-fighting capabilities with the Talon Fused Weapon Sight, a thermal imaging device designed to identify targets up to a kilometre away in complete darkness.
This technology, developed by Qioptiq, a division of Excelitas, will be mounted on SA80 L85 A3 and KS-1 L403 A1 rifles, transforming their standard scopes into thermal sights.
The Talon employs a 12 μm, 60 Hz uncooled thermal sensor with thermal recognition technology to detect body heat, enabling soldiers to identify targets in both darkness and daylight. Equipped with a near-silent shutter, the sight enhances stealth during operations.
Set for deployment by 2025, the device has been trialed since 2021 by the Enhanced Light Force Battalion, based in Chester. The unit provided valuable feedback during the trials, ensuring the sight meets operational needs.
Defence Procurement Minister Maria Eagle highlighted the broader benefits of the programme, emphasizing the £120 million investment in the sight, which supports 650 jobs in Wales.