ScanEagle plays late and becomes the NightEagle

Insitu have announced its NightEagle unmanned aircraft system (UAS) is now fully integrated into combat operations after successfully completing fielding of an upgraded mid-wave infrared (MWIR) imager payload.

Insitu responded to an urgent, mission-critical request to field the advanced MWIR imager, which provides even greater nighttime vision for the warfighter.  The new sensors were rapidly fielded through an in-theater upgrade kit implemented by Insitu deployed operations representatives who provide global operations and maintenance of Insitu UAS 24 hours per day, 7 days per week, 365 days per year.

The upgrade was implemented into the customer’s existing in-theater NightEagle fleet and flew successfully within a few days before the required date. The new configuration consists of upgrades to ground support equipment and new software. Implementation includes specialized in-field training.

“When the customer approached us with this critical need, we felt confident that we could successfully field the new NightEagle MWIR imager in theater,” said Insitu Vice President of Sustainment Operations and General Manager Mary Margaret Evans. “In less time than was expected of us, we delivered a mission-ready payload to meet the needs of the warfigher.”

NightEagle’s MWIR payload assures continued intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance coverage when dust and rain blind other infrared sensors. With more continuous zoom and a wider range of articulation and field-of-regard, the second generation MWIR imager payload helps keep eyes on target.

Insitu Inc., located in Bingen, Wash., is a wholly owned independent subsidiary of The Boeing Company. Insitu designs, develops and manufactures UAS and provides associated services for commercial and military applications. With a small footprint and expeditionary focus for both land and sea operations, the company’s family of UAS solutions serves the needs of the global defense community. To date, these systems have accumulated more than 350,000 combat flight hours and 43,000 sorties. For more information, visit www.insitu.com