About Thermal Vision Defence
At Thermal Vision Defence, we understand that your imaging needs are unique, whether you’re part of a large trial or in a lab setup.
We specialise in customising camera packages to meet your project requirements and budget.
As an authorised distributor of Teledyne FLIR Science cameras for over a decade, we deliver cutting-edge thermal imaging solutions for research, scientific exploration, and automation. What sets us apart is our access to exclusive cameras not widely available in the UK, supported by our tailored software and expert technical assistance.
From long-range tracking and radiometry applications to high-speed ballistics, we take pride in offering personalised service, from equipment setup to comprehensive training and ongoing support, to ensure your project’s success.
High-Speed Thermal Data Collection
With so many temperature measurement tools available, why choose thermal imaging? For researchers and engineers, especially in military and range applications, thermal imaging offers a distinct advantage: it captures thermal data without physical contact with the target.
High-end R&D and science-grade cameras provide the speed and spatial resolution needed to track fast-moving targets and thermal transients and also feature advanced triggering and timing capabilities. These cameras can detect even the slightest temperature variations—measuring differences as small as 0.02°C (20 mK). With FLIR infrared cameras, you can analyze the data your way using FLIR R&D software or custom solutions with our SDK.
FLIR Systems, initially known as AGEMA, has been at the forefront of thermal imaging for over 50 years. As the technology evolved, FLIR developed compact systems with user-friendly controls, delivering sharp, real-time, high-resolution images. Thanks to infrared detection and cooling advancements, FLIR cameras now offer greater accuracy, faster speeds, and improved resolution—precisely what’s required for R&D and science applications.
In the last decade, FLIR’s science models have expanded to provide affordable access to various infrared bands, detector materials, and temperature ranges. With enhanced connectivity and software integration options, it’s easier than ever for scientists to incorporate infrared systems into their research.
Explore our comprehensive guide to research and science thermography, from understanding the basics of infrared cameras to leveraging their benefits for your projects. Visit flir.com/range-applications to learn more about thermal imaging for military research and range applications.
Hikers images 9km away from camera
Stormont 5km away from the camera.
Challenges of Measuring Infrared Radiance
In most commercial applications, infrared (IR) cameras measure objects’ temperatures—whether to monitor how hot a product component gets or ensure safe operating conditions. However, on military test ranges, the focus shifts from temperature to radiance.
Radiance refers to the amount of light—or, more precisely, the number of photons—emitted by an object at a specific wavelength and temperature. Measuring radiance is crucial because it helps military detection equipment identify objects based on their infrared (IR) signatures. While temperature data, such as the heat of a bullet tip or an engine block, is helpful in some cases, radiance is often the primary metric for military research.
Researchers can identify and differentiate between objects, such as enemy equipment and personnel, by measuring radiance in specific wavebands. This data allows them to predict how different detectors, like those in heat-seeking missiles or sniper scopes, will interpret an object’s infrared signature. Many military personnel and vehicles, such as tanks, rely on thermal cameras, making accurate radiance measurements vital for real-world operations.
Additionally, understanding an object’s appearance in the infrared spectrum helps the military camouflage their equipment, ensuring it blends in and avoids detection by enemy systems. For all these reasons, the IR cameras used in military applications must be calibrated to measure radiance accurately.
Clients we currently work with
Events in 2025
Information
DPRTE
26 th – 27 th March 2025
Farnborough International Exhibition
Centre
Connecting buyers, suppliers, prime contractors and academia from across the defence acquisition supply chain, DPRTE provides extensive skills development, networking, collaboration and showcase opportunities for organisations that are actively working with the defence sector or that are exploring ways to work in the UK’s £20bn+ defence procurement marketplace.
Meet the kit
Teledyne FLIR, a leader in thermal imaging and infrared technology, specializes in advanced sensing solutions for various applications. Renowned for their innovative products, they provide critical tools for surveillance, industrial inspection, and environmental monitoring. Their comprehensive range includes thermal cameras, sensors, and integrated systems, enabling users to see in complete darkness, monitor temperature changes, and detect potential issues before they escalate.
Serving sectors such as defence, public safety, and industrial operations, Teledyne FLIR’s cutting-edge technologies enhance situational awareness, safety, and efficiency. Committed to excellence and innovation, they continue to push the boundaries of what is possible in thermal imaging and sensing.
FLIR RS8580 and RS6780
Cooled Range System
The FLIR RS8500 is a high-performance MWIR infrared camera and telescope system designed for long-range tracking and measurement in military range, aerospace, and outdoor research applications. It features a high-resolution 1280 × 1024 indium antimonide detector, delivering data up to 180 frames per second. A 10X continuous zoom lens, advanced data output options, and weatherproof housing ensure precise and reliable performance.
The RS8500 offers superior resolution, measurement accuracy, and easy integration into data acquisition systems, making it ideal for capturing high-speed thermal data in demanding environments.
The FLIR RS6780 is a high-performance, midwave infrared (MWIR) camera designed for advanced research and development applications. It features a 640 x 512 resolution sensor, a three-position motorized filter wheel, and a continuous zoom lens ranging from 50 to 250 mm. The camera excels in capturing detailed thermal images and offers precise synchronization and triggering capabilities.
Housed in a rugged, weatherproof enclosure, it ensures reliable operation in harsh environments. Ideal for long-range and tracking applications, the RS6780 supports various radiometric measurements, making it versatile for scientific and industrial uses.
FLIR X and A Series
Advanced Thermal Systems
The Teledyne FLIR X-Series cameras, particularly the new models such as the X6980-HS and X8580-HS, are high-performance thermal imaging solutions designed for advanced research and development applications. These cameras cover both mid-wave infrared (MWIR) and long-wave infrared (LWIR) spectrums, offering superior imaging capabilities.
The high-speed series (HS) models are equipped with 10GigE and CoaXPress interfaces for rapid data transfer and include a removable NVMe SSD for lossless recording of critical thermal events. Ideal for detailed thermal analysis, these cameras support synchronization with multiple sensors using FLIR Research Studio software, enhancing their utility in complex R&D environments.
FLIR A700sc
UnCooled System
The FLIR A400/A700 Science Kits are advanced thermal imaging solutions for scientific research and development. These kits provide high-resolution thermal cameras and powerful software for precise temperature measurement and analysis. Ideal for laboratory and industrial applications, they enable users to capture detailed thermal data and conduct in-depth analysis.
Features include spot and area measurements, radiometric streaming, and customizable configurations to suit specific research needs. The FLIR A400/A700 Science Kits support real-time data collection and integration with third-party analysis tools. They are invaluable for enhancing research capabilities and ensuring accurate, reliable results in various scientific disciplines.
FLIR A6301sc
New Cooled System
FLIR A6301 Advanced Thermal Camera offer engineers and system integrators the best and most advanced thermal camera for Process Control, Monitoring and Quality Assurance. Its industry-leading 27,000-hour cryocooler lifetime maximizes camera uptime for consistent production throughput, while minimizing cost through planned maintenance.
Its fast integration times improves yield, through-put time, costs, while ensuring consistent quality. This cooled camera platform provides a streamlined solution for accurate temperature measurement. The Standard kit includes a FLIR A6301 Advanced Thermal Camera, accessories, and 17 mm, 24 mm, or 50 mm lens.
Research Studio
Advanced Software for Camera Control and data processing
FLIR Research Studio is designed to work the way you do, providing robust recording and analysis capabilities with an intuitive user interface for a variety of research & development applications. This premium, advanced thermal analysis software offers a simplified workflow for displaying, recording, and evaluating data from multiple FLIR cameras simultaneously – allowing you to quickly interpret and understand critical information.
FLIR Research Studio also features multi-language and multi-platform support (Windows, MacOS, Linux) to improve collaboration between team members, increase efficiency, and help reduce the potential for misinterpretation due to poor translations.
FREE Guide Book Download
Also, check out our Infrared RD Handbook.
Get a FREE copy of the TVR Guidebook for Military Test Range Applications: Using Thermal Imaging for Long-Range Measurements & Tracking.
This free guidebook will give you a comprehensive understanding of research and science thermography for military research and test range applications—from how IR cameras work to how they can benefit your project.
Chapters include:
- Finding Resolution in a Distant Image
- Measuring at the Speed of Light
- The Challenges of Infrared Radiance Measurement
- Software: A Critical Component of Any IR Camera
You’ll also learn what to consider when selecting an IR camera, and see recommendations for military test range applications.
Download
Guidebook
Contact Us
Here is a precise what3words address, made of 3 random words. Every 3-metre square in the world has its own unique what3words address.
You’ve read the story, seen some of our products, if you can let us know what you’re looking for, we’ll see how we can help.
Please note visits are by appointment only.
The Macintosh Consultancy Ltd ( for Thermal Vision Defence Ltd )
2530 The Quadrant
Aztec West
Bristol
BS32 4AQ
T: 07973403819
E: matthew@thermalvisionresearch.co.uk
W: www.thermalvisiondefence.co.uk
Based in the South West of the UK we can easily travel to all parts of the UK. Bristol Airport is only 30min away providing quick connection to places such as Glasgow and Edinburgh.
by Car
by Train
by Air
Online Shop Premium X-Series Advanced A-Series Highend UnCooled Buy Online Entry Level Buy Online Software Buy Online FLIR attending DPRTE with Thermal Vision...
Online Shop Premium X-Series Advanced A-Series Highend UnCooled Buy Online Entry Level Buy Online Software Buy Online FLIR Systems R&D cameras contribute to aerodynamic research...
Online Shop Premium X-Series Advanced A-Series Highend UnCooled Buy Online Entry Level Buy Online Software Buy Online Configuring computer and network adapters for Giga Ethernet best...
Online Shop Premium X-Series Advanced A-Series Highend UnCooled Buy Online Entry Level Buy Online Software Buy Online [/vc_column] GigE Optimizing image transfer GigE Optimizing image transfer Updated Date 20/12/2024 07.01...