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DE Application overview
UAV & UAS Gimbal Payloads
Multi-sensor EO/IR gimbal payloads designed for the strict size, weight, and power constraints of unmanned platforms combining thermal imaging, daylight video, and laser ranging in a single gyro-stabilised turret.
What Is an EO/IR Gimbal Payload
The Eyes of an
Unmanned Platform
An EO/IR gimbal payload is a stabilized multi-sensor turret that provides UAVs and UAS with clear, stable imaging independent of platform movement. By combining daylight (EO), thermal (IR) and laser range finder (LRF) sensors in one system, it delivers reliable situational awareness in all lighting and environmental conditions. Designed with strict Size, Weight and Power (SWaP) constraints in mind, OBSETECH components enable high-performance multi-sensor payloads even on small tactical UAV platforms. Our thermal cameras, visible cameras and laser range finder modules provide the core sensing capabilities required for airborne observation, tracking and target localization.
Gimbal Architecture
Three Capabilities.
One Stabilised Turret.
A mission-capable airborne gimbal integrates three main sensor channels. Each solving a distinct part of the operational picture into a single vibration-isolated, stabilised housing.
Thermal Imaging (IR)
LWIR and MWIR thermal cameras detect heat signatures day and night, without the need for illumination, and perform reliably through haze, smoke and challenging environmental conditions. Available in high-performance resolutions such as 640×512 and 1280×1024, these sensors provide long-range detection capability and represent the primary imaging technology for persistent, all-weather surveillance and target acquisition in airborne gimbal payloads.
Daylight Camera (EO)
High-resolution electro-optical cameras deliver detailed full-colour imagery in HD and 4K resolution, supporting identification, tracking and pattern-of-life analysis. Continuous optical zoom enables smooth transition from wide-area observation to narrow field-of-view target identification, providing clear visual context and enhanced situational awareness in EO/IR payload systems.
Laser Range Finder (LRF)
Compact eye-safe laser range finder modules provide precise distance measurement up to 5 km with high accuracy. When combined with GPS and IMU data, LRF enables reliable target coordinate generation for tracking, mapping and mission planning. Designed for seamless integration into stabilized gimbal payloads, the module supports accurate ranging and sensor fusion across multi-sensor airborne systems.
OBSETECH in EO/IR Gimbal Payload Systems
SWAP-Optimised Sensors
for Every Airframe
Each OBSETECH component is engineered for reliable airborne integration, meeting demanding military-grade environmental, optical and electrical requirements. Modules are designed for wide operating temperature ranges, high resistance to shock and vibration (MIL-STD), low-latency digital video interfaces, and compact form factors optimized for seamless integration into stabilized EO/IR gimbal payload systems.
Thermal cameras are a core sensing technology in EO/IR gimbal payloads, enabling reliable day and night imaging without the need for illumination and maintaining performance in haze, smoke and challenging weather conditions. LWIR uncooled sensors provide an optimal balance of size, weight and power (SWaP) for compact UAV gimbals, while MWIR cooled sensors deliver maximum sensitivity and extended detection range for advanced airborne surveillance applications.
Laser Range Finders (LRF) transform visual observation into precise target location data. OBSETECH eye-safe LRF modules, based on Erbium laser technology, provide accurate distance measurement supporting geolocation, mapping and tracking. Designed for seamless integration into stabilized EO/IR gimbals, the modules include an integrated laser pointer for precise alignment and boresight with other sensors, ensuring reliable sensor fusion and accurate ranging.
Gyro-stabilized EO/IR gimbal payloads integrate daylight cameras, thermal sensors (LWIR / MWIR / SWIR) and laser range finder modules into a single co-aligned system, providing stable, high-quality imagery independent of platform motion. Continuous optical zoom, precise stabilization and AI-supported target tracking enable reliable long-range observation and situational awareness across a wide range of airborne missions.
The Strategic Edge
SWaP Without
Compromise.
Reducing size and weight should never mean accepting inferior imagery. OBSETECH sensor modules are engineered to maximise optical and thermal performance within the strict SWaP envelopes of modern unmanned systems.
Every component leaves the factory qualified to MIL-STD-810 shock and vibration, tested across the full military temperature range, and validated for EMI compatibility with standard UAV avionics. Integration support and custom optical configurations are available for programme-specific requirements.
Ready to Integrate?
Request a Technical
Briefing Today
Our technical team is ready to discuss your platform requirements, SWaP budget, and sensor configuration. All enquiries are handled under strict confidentiality.
