British army awards contract for SSARFs

LONDON, Feb. 18 (UPI) -- The British Ministry of Defense announced it has awarded a contract to equip the Army's frontline forces with target locator systems.

British Defense Secretary Des Browne announced Thales Group has been contracted to supply the British army with new Surveillance System and Range Finder technologies. Under the approximately $58.8 million deal, Thales will deliver SSARFs to British troops that will enable quick identification of enemy locations along with the ability to determine the best mortar or artillery firepower the situation on the ground requires.

Officials say the handheld SSARF technology can be used in any weather conditions in the day or at night. The systems also have built-in global positioning systems, thermal imaging and laser range-finder capabilities.

"The ability to see and target accurately at night gives our troops on operations a boost to their capabilities," Browne said in a statement. "This will help deliver more effective use of firepower and save lives. This new equipment for our troops is made in Scotland, where some of the most advanced optical equipment is being developed to deliver world class capabilities for Britain's armed forces."

Thales officials say the SSARF systems will enter service in 2009.