MKS-Ophir has introduced the Ophir KAMU series, a line of fully integrated Mid-Wave Infrared (MWIR) thermal imaging cameras designed for long-range surveillance and Counter-Unmanned Aircraft Systems (CUAS).
Unveiled at SPIE Defense + Security 2026, the series utilizes an SXGA cooled detector with 1280×1024 pixel resolution and a 10 µm pixel pitch. The cameras are built around high-performance continuous-zoom optics, offering focal lengths ranging from 300 mm to 1200 mm. This configuration allows for extreme stand-off detection capabilities; for instance, the 1200 mm model can detect standard military vehicle targets at approximately 28 km and identify micro drones at distances of 1.7 km or greater.
The system is designed to maintain a constant f/4 aperture throughout the zoom range, ensuring consistent thermal performance and stable line-of-sight. This optical precision facilitates earlier threat detection by maintaining precise boresight and image focus from wide to narrow fields of view.
Dr. Kobi Lasri, General Manager, Ophir Optics Products, commented, “In long‑range thermal imaging, optics determine outcomes. The Ophir KAMU MWIR camera places MKS’ continuous‑zoom optics at the center—paired with SXGA resolution and an integration‑ready architecture—to deliver consistent thermal performance, near‑diffraction‑limited imaging, and reliable long‑range discrimination across airborne, maritime, and ground ISR.”
For technical integration, the KAMU series features a video-processing pipeline that includes non-uniformity correction, bad-pixel repair, denoise, and adaptive gain control. It supports multiple digital outputs, including H.264/H.265 over Ethernet, HD-SDI, and HDMI, with Camera Link available as an option. Command and control are managed via Ethernet and RS-422 interfaces.
Engineered for durability in harsh environments, the cameras are available in open-frame or MIL-STD-810 qualified configurations. The ruggedized versions include an IP67-sealed front element, EMI-protected D38999 connectors, and nitrogen backfilling to prevent internal fogging. The design also incorporates factory boresight and narcissism calibration to enhance accuracy and reduce long-term maintenance requirements for original equipment manufacturers.
The Ophir MWIR f/4 camera series is currently available for procurement, with the lens-centric design aimed at reducing engineering risk and accelerating field deployment for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance applications.
