The Egyptian Navy choses Safran to equip its Offshore Patrol Vessels with advanced optronic and navigation systems

The Egyptian Navy has chosen Safran to equip 10 Offshore Patrol Vessels (OPVs) with advanced optronic and navigation systems. NVL Egypt, a joint venture between Lürssen and the Government of Egypt (GOE), has selected Safran's VIGY 4 optronic sights and Argonyx inertial navigation systems to significantly bolster Egypt's naval defense technology.

VIGY 4 is a compact, stabilized, long-range panoramic observation and sighting system. It can detect, identify and track threats. It is particularly efficient for operations in reduced visibility, in the dark and in difficult weather conditions, through fog for example, thanks to a SWIR (Short Wave InfraRed) channel. The VIGY 4 sight can also drive small and medium-caliber weapons.

Based on the HRG Crystal gyroscope technology, an innovation patented by Safran, the Argonyx inertial navigation system provides all the data essential for navigation. This advanced navigation system also offers a high level of performance in environment devoid of satellite navigation signals (GNSS-denied) and meets the most stringent requirements for stabilization of weapon systems.

"We are proud to contribute to the modernization of the Egyptian Navy," said Alexandre Ziegler, Executive VP, Defense GBU of Safran Electronics & Defense. "Our solutions will enhance the precision and security of its maritime missions, thus affirming our commitment to supporting the sovereignty of States with our cutting-edge technologies."

These systems will be installed on OPVs, which will be constructed in Egypt by Alexandria Shipyard.