Safran’s PASEO XLR for French Navy frigates

Safran Electronics & Defense’s PASEO XLR extra long range sighting system has been selected by Naval Group for the French Navy’s Frégate de Taille Intermédiaire (FTI) frigate programme, the company announced on 20 March.

Five 4,000-ton FTIs are to be delivered to the navy starting in 2023.

Safran's PASEO XLR system provides a very long range identification capability, especially valuable in the context of asymmetric combat, where front-line ships are called on to operate near coastlines and may engage small vessels showing suspicious behaviour. The system allows ships to determine these vessels' intentions at a range enabling the frigate to activate its self-defence system.

The PASEO XLR features a stabilised turret from the New Generation Laser Attachment Assistance Device deck-landing aid device designed for the Charles de Gaulle aircraft carrier, and cameras with very high magnification.

It also includes a high-definition TV channel, including a powerful telescope and a very-long-range Satis XLR infrared imager, and an eyesafe laser rangefinder. A shortwave infrared channel is offered as an option, to enhance performance in foggy conditions.