Cassidian Optronics improves the mission effectiveness of the 209 class submarines of the Colombian Navy by installing state-of-the-art sighting systems. After the already ordered refurbishment of an attack periscope, the Colombian Navy has now ordered a SERO 250 search periscope from Cassidian Optronics for a 209 Class submarine. Cassidian Optronics is the well-known producer of optronic mast systems and periscopes for submarines, formerly known as Carl Zeiss Optronics.

This contract is the first in a series of contracts aimed at the final replacement of all current optical systems on board the existing Class 209 submarines of the Colombian Navy. These submarines were commissioned in 1975 and are now in an overhaul and upgrade phase. The current programme is under contract to the German shipbuilding company HDW in Kiel. Cassidian Optronics' SERO 250 was chosen because it is a modern and cost effective plug-in solution replacing older periscopes without having to make major modifications to the boat.

One of the main criteria for a periscope upgrade in submarines is the increase in capabilities. The SERO 250 periscope is equipped with state-of-the-art sensors. These include a new generation infrared sensor, offering the crew a night vision capability. It was specifically designed for the submarine refit market to replace legacy systems with minimal platform adaptation. In the integration process local partners in Columbia will be involved. Previously, Cassidian Optronics won different programmes within the retrofit market, including the upgrade programme of the Turkish Navy’s AY-Class submarines. (More information about Cassidian Optronics maritime solutions under http://www.cassidian.com/en_US/web/guest/optronics-maritime-solutions).

Employing about 800 staff at the German locations of Oberkochen and Wetzlar, and at Irene in South Africa, Cassidian Optronics GmbH develops and manufactures optical and optronic products which are used in military ground, sea and air systems as well as in border and security technologies, but also in non-military high-tech systems and in the aerospace sector. Cassidian Optronics combines the optical and optronic precision technology from Carl Zeiss Optronics with Cassidian’s know-how as a global market leader in defence and security technology.

About CASSIDIAN

Cassidian, the defence division of EADS, is a worldwide leader in defence and security solutions. The company delivers advanced defence systems along the whole action chain from sensors through command control systems to combat aircraft and unmanned air systems. In the area of security, Cassidian provides customers worldwide with border surveillance systems, cyber security solutions and secure communications. In 2012, Cassidian – with around 23,000 employees – achieved revenues of € 5.7 billion.

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