IAI Introduces Its New Ultra Light MiniPOP Payload

Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) is introducing the newest member of its MiniPOP (plug-in optronic payload) family: the Ultra Light MiniPOP.

The new lightweight MiniPOP payload is manufactured using lightweight metals, including Magnesium and Titanium. It is designed to be utilized by small unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), which demand long endurance; and by Special Ground Forces for intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance and targeting (ISTAR) missions. The system can be handled and operated by a single soldier.

Shaul Shahar, General Manager of IAI's TAMAM Division, commented: "We are very proud of the technical achievements accomplished with this MiniPOP. We have reduced the weight of the MiniPOP by 25% compared to its predecessors, while maintaining its superior performance. The new MiniPOP allows TAMAM to offer electro- optical solutions for UAVs of between 25 – 50 kg, thereby significantly extending their mission duration capabilities."

The new MiniPOP is a part of the ever-expanding MiniPOP family of advanced, lightweight, single Line-Replaceable-Unit, observation and targeting payloads. More than 300 payloads are deployed in the field worldwide with leading military and security forces and users.

The Ultra Light MiniPOP is uniquely small (8'') and can be equipped with up to 5 sensors, providing the best performance in its class.

System Specifications:
-- Size: 8” (21cm)
-- Weight: 14 – 16.5 lbs (~ 6.2 – 7.5 kg) dependent upon sensor configuration
-- Thermal Imager: Cooled InSb 3-5 µm FPA with continuous zoom
-- Day color Camera: CCD with Near IR (NIR) capability, with continuous zoom
-- Laser Range Finder (optional): Eyesafe 1 pps (option for 3 pps)
-- Laser Pointer (optional) : 0.83µm
-- Laser Designator (optional)