Saab unveils laser rangefinder Vidar for Arafura-class OPVs

Saab has revealed its latest laser rangefinder for installation on the Royal Australian Navy’s new Arafura-class offshore patrol vessels (OPV).

Named Vidar, the laser rangefinder is currently undergoing production and combines compact size with powerful performance, the company stated.

Laser rangefinders use a laser beam to determine the distance to the target.

The company noted that Vidar can be used in anti-aircraft and anti-ship operations and is capable of generating highly accurate tracking data even at long ranges.

Saab surveillance head Anders Carp said: “With the latest addition to our laser offer, Vidar, we meet the market’s demand for a laser rangefinder with an optimal balance between size and cutting-edge performance.

“It is in production and will be delivered for Australia’s new Arafura-class offshore patrol vessels as a part of the 9LV-based situational awareness system.”

Saab won a contract in April this year from Luerssen Australia to provide the situational awareness system for the new OPVs.

Luerssen is the lead contractor for the development of 12 Arafura-class OPVs for the RAN. Construction of the first vessel started last month in Adelaide, Australia.

The Arafura-class is set to replace the Armidale and Cape class patrol boats. It will primarily be used by the RAN for security missions, maritime patrol and response duties.

Saab has been manufacturing military lasers since the early 1960s and has delivered approximately 5,000 units to more than 30 countries to date.