Safran’s Euroflir™ 410: The Eye in the Sky for the French Navy’s Falcon Triton and Albatros Patrols
Safran Electronics & Defense has formalized an agreement with Dassault Aviation to deliver next-generation Euroflir™410 optronic (electro-optical) systems for two distinct Falcon-based aircraft: twelve Albatros derived from the Falcon 2000LXS, and eight Falcon 50M Triton models upgraded as part of the French navy’s initiative to modernize its maritime surveillance and intervention aircraft.
The next-generation Euroflir™410, a crucial element of the SAR suite (Search & Rescue), will provide exceptional observation capabilities, even in low-visibility environments, thanks particularly to an advanced long-range telescope and superior line-of-sight stabilization. Integrated with maritime radar and the AIS (Automatic Identification System), the Euroflir™410 enables ship identification and precise geolocation. It can identify a vessel’s registration number or detect an individual in distress from several kilometers away. The new Euroflir™410 optronic systems empower France’s Maritime Surveillance & Intervention Patrol (PATSIMAR) to enhance its covert high-altitude observation abilities and execute at-sea search & rescue or zone surveillance operations under extreme conditions.
With this recent contract acquisition, Safran reaffirms its leadership in Europe within the demanding market for airborne optronics on specialized mission aircraft and helicopters. The modified Triton Falcon 50M and Falcon 2000 Albatros aircraft will be operational from 2023 and 2025, respectively, in accordance with the latest defense planning legislation by the French government, gradually substituting the existing Falcon 50M and Falcon 200 Guardian aircraft in the 24F and 25F fleets, located in mainland France and overseas territories.
As part of the Maritime Patrol force, these aircraft will oversee maritime territories within France’s exclusive economic zone (EEZ) – the second largest in the world – to ensure national sovereignty. Their assigned tasks include safeguarding the safety of vessels, crews, and passengers; overseeing fishing zones; protecting borders; conserving the marine environment; and combating terrorism and trafficking, along with carrying out at-sea rescue operations, given their comprehensive SAR equipment suite.
