HGH was awarded by Airbus Defence and Space
PRESS RELEASE
For Immediate Release
HGH was awarded by Airbus Defence and Space to supply OGSE blackbodies for the Copernicus program
IGNY, France – April 16, 2026 – HGH, a recognized expert in electro-optical and infrared solutions, announces a supply of several high precision vacuum-compatible blackbodies to the LSTM (Land Surface Temperature Monitoring) mission. As part of the Copernicus program, two Earth observation satellites are developed by the European Space Agency (ESA) on behalf of the European Commission (EC) with a first launch scheduled in 2028. This mission aims to improve the monitoring of land and coastal surface temperatures in order to, among others, support agricultural management and environmental services.
The LSTM satellites will be equipped with high-precision optical instruments capable of making observations in the visible and near-infrared (VNIR), shortwave infrared (SWIR), and thermal infrared (TIR) spectral bands. They will enable surface temperature measurements that significantly improve on current capabilities.
Before launch, space instruments must be tested and characterized under conditions that replicate the space environment. For these vacuum tests, the prime contractor Airbus Defence and Space uses an optical bench called INSTOB (INSTrument Optical Bench), which is part of the optical ground support equipment (OGSE).
For this purpose, HGH has been selected by the Prime Contractor Airbus Defence and Space and ESA to supply two vacuum-compatible blackbodies and their spare parts for characterizing and calibrating the thermal infrared instrument. Among these high uniformity reference sources, a vacuum-compatible blackbody will simulate terrestrial radiation (Scene blackbody), and another one will simulate space radiation (Deep Space blackbody). This equipment makes it possible to generate extremely accurate thermal references, thereby ensuring the reliability of measurements taken in orbit.
Since 2005, HGH vacuum-compatible blackbodies have been integrated into OGSE of several major players in the space industry to their Assembly Integration, Verification and Testing (AIVT) processes.
The LSTM mission confirms HGH’s ambition to accelerate its development in the demanding space sector and contribute to Earth observation missions dedicated to major climate and environmental issues.
By contributing to this mission, HGH confirms its commitment to developing benchmark technologies for space innovation and environmental protection.
About HGH:
Pioneer in electro-optical technologies since 1982, HGH develops advanced optical testing solutions for optronic systems and provides high precision equipment, unparalleled technical support and measurement services. These cutting-edge infrared and visible test equipment range from blackbodies, integrating spheres sources and laboratory collimators or integrated test benches for workshops. All are driven by the comprehensive INFRATEST software. HGH solutions offer to camera manufacturers, research labs, detector and core manufacturers and test centers around the world the most reliable and independent test results allowing them to meet the highest industry standards and innovate in their areas of expertise.
Press Contact
Karine Sebbah
Communications Project Manager
Mail
HGH announces the signing of several major contracts with Thales
PRESS RELEASE
For Immediate Release
HGH announces the signing of several major contracts with Thales for a total amount of €50 million for Ground-Based Air Defense
IGNY, France – March 11, 2026 – HGH, a recognized expert in electro-optical and infrared solutions, announces the signing of several new contracts with Thales, a leading technology provider. These contracts, representing a total value of approximately €50 million cover a large number of SPYNEL units, confirming HGH’s expertise in infrared technology and software for defense and security applications.
As part of these contracts, Thales ordered several SPYNEL-X infrared panoramic cameras intended to be integrated into VSHORAD (Very Short-Range Air Defense) systems.
SPYNEL-X sensors and their advanced CYCLOPE video analysis software, enhanced by HGH’s proprietary artificial intelligence, enable the automatic detection and tracking of low-altitude aerial targets. Combined with Man-Portable Air Defense Systems (MANPADS) such as VSHORAD, they provide enhanced protection for critical assets against constantly evolving threat technology, including fast and stealthy solutions like autonomous or tethered drones.
One of these contracts is part of a major new air defense program with a leading European player, illustrating the confidence placed in the cutting-edge technology developed by HGH. HGH’s SPYNEL-X solution integrates seamlessly with Thales’ air defense systems, effectively contributing to the fight against aerial threats, including attack drones. This unique solution developed by HGH is also expected to be adopted in several other countries worldwide to enhance air security and for the surveillance of sensitive civilian sites.
The integration of HGH’s SPYNEL-X panoramic thermal cameras into Thales’ air defense systems represents a major advancement in air defense capabilities. Equipped with a GAIA Air artificial intelligence module, the SPYNEL-X solution enables the detection of low-radar-signature aerial threats through the analysis of their thermal signature. This synergy effectively complements existing radars, while preserving the unique features of the SPYNEL system, designed to operate completely independently of radars.
Thanks to its completely passive operation, SPYNEL technology offers a key advantage in the field of electronic warfare: it enables discreet aerial surveillance, without detectable electromagnetic emissions, ensuring the operational continuity of air defense systems, while remaining portable and rapidly deployable, allowing for great tactical flexibility.
«These contracts mark a significant milestone in the structuring of HGH and its strategic role in protecting states and their airspace. They reflect our long-term vision and are the culmination of over 40 years of continuous technological innovation» Vincent Leboucher, President, HGH
«These contracts confirm the major role of infrared panoramic surveillance as a passive solution for airspace protection, and solidify HGH’s leading position. They also foreshadow even more promising opportunities» Cyril Marchebout, Sales Director, HGH.
About HGH:
Founded in France in 1982, HGH has become a world leader in infrared technology, specializing in the design, manufacture, and marketing of advanced electro-optical systems and sensors for industrial, defense, and security applications. Driven by continuous innovation, HGH combines expertise in infrared technologies and proprietary artificial intelligence to deliver high-performance surveillance.
Press Contact
Karine Sebbah
Communications Project Manager
Mail
HGH Announces Strategic Collaboration with UNIFY.C2
PRESS RELEASE
For Immediate Release
UNIFY.C2 Integrates HGH’s SPYNEL X to Expand Advanced Infrared Detection and Tracking Capabilities for Counter-UAS and Airspace Security
New collaboration brings HGH wide area surveillance, passive MWIR sensor technology into the UNIFY.C2 single-screen command-and-control platform, delivering enhanced detection, tracking, and situational awareness for defense, government, and critical infrastructure operators
Igny — January 30, 2026 — UNIFY.C2, the next-generation airspace command-and-control and Counter-UAS (C-UAS) software platform developed by SPS Aerial Remote Sensing (SPS ARS), today announced a new collaboration with HGH, a global leader in infrared imaging and surveillance solutions. Through this partnership, HGH’s SPYNEL X panoramic IR camera, using advanced mid-wave infrared (MWIR) sensor technologies, is now integrated into the UNIFY.C2 platform, expanding multi-sensor detection, tracking, and threat assessment capabilities within a unified operational interface.
The integration enables UNIFY.C2 operators to ingest, correlate, and visualize real-time infrared data from HGH alongside existing RF, radar, acoustic, and other sensor inputs. This enhanced fusion delivers improved detection of low-observable aerial threats, including small and non-cooperative unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), while strengthening 24/7 situational awareness across complex operational environments.
“Integrating HGH’ SPYNEL into UNIFY.C2 significantly expands our ability to deliver persistent, multi-phenomenology airspace awareness through a single operational picture,” said Anthony Lim, COO at UNIFY.C2. “HGH’s infrared expertise complements our open-architecture approach, giving operators greater confidence in detection, tracking, and decision-making across day, night, and adverse conditions.”
HGH’s infrared technologies are widely deployed in defense, border security, critical infrastructure, and maritime surveillance missions worldwide. By integrating these systems into UNIFY.C2, customers gain seamless access to high-fidelity IR data and imagery without adding operator burden or fragmented user interfaces.
“This collaboration with UNIFY.C2 allows our SPYNEL wide area surveillance solution to operate as part of a fully integrated, sensor-agnostic command-and-control ecosystem,” said Marcel Naujok, VP & General Manager at HGH USA. “Together, we are enabling security operators to detect and assess aerial threats faster and more effectively through a unified, mission-driven platform.”
UNIFY.C2 is purpose-built to integrate and fuse best-in-class sensors and effectors into a single, scalable software environment. The addition of HGH’s SPYNEL further strengthens UNIFY.C2’s role as a central integration layer for Counter-UAS, airspace security, and multi-domain awareness missions across defense, government, and critical infrastructure markets.
About UNIFY.C2
UNIFY.C2, developed by SPS Aerial Remote Sensing (SPS ARS), is a next-generation airspace command-and-control platform delivering real-time fusion intelligence, multi-sensor integration, and advanced Counter-UAS (C-UAS) capabilities. Purpose-built for defense, government, public safety, and critical infrastructure protection, UNIFY.C2 unifies sensors and effectors into a single, interoperable operating environment—providing operators with precise, actionable situational awareness at mission speed.
Designed to detect, identify, track, assess, and respond to emerging UAS and multi-domain threats, UNIFY.C2 delivers unparalleled operational clarity through a scalable, intuitive interface that supports both tactical and enterprise-level deployments. For more information visit: www.UNIFYC2.com
About HGH
HGH is a global leader in infrared imaging and surveillance technologies, delivering advanced solutions for defense, security, border protection, maritime surveillance, and critical infrastructure monitoring. With decades of operational experience, HGH are trusted worldwide to provide reliable detection and situational awareness in the most demanding environments. For more information visit: www.hgh-infrared.com
Media Contacts
UNIFY.C2
Molly Risak
Marketing Director
HGH USA
Marcel Naujok
VP & General Manager
HGH Showcases Next-Generation GAIA A.I. for Drone Detection at Milipol Paris 2025
PRESS RELEASE
For Immediate Release
HGH Showcases Next-Generation GAIA A.I. for Drone Detection at Milipol Paris 2025
Paris-Villepinte, France — November 18th 2025 — HGH, expert in panoramic thermal solutions for wide area surveillance and security, will take part in Milipol Paris 2025, the leading international event for homeland security, from 18 to 21 November 2025 at Paris-Nord Villepinte. At Stand 5R105, HGH will present the next-generation GAIA Air, a major evolution in its passive counter-UAV solutions, and a participant for the Milipol Innovation Award in the Drone & Anti-Drone Systems category.
Building on the success of its previous iteration, the new GAIA Air introduces advanced AI capabilities for more powerful, precise, and resilient detection of aerial threats. Integrated with HGH’s SPYNEL panoramic thermal sensors and the enhanced CYCLOPE analytics suite, this upgraded solution has been designed to meet today’s most demanding operational challenges, particularly facing low-signature, fast-moving drones.
Key improvements in this next-gen version include:
- A vastly expanded threat database, trained through extensive annotation campaigns,
- Enhanced tracking of drones in complex visual environments (moving clouds, sun reflections, textured backgrounds),
- Improved false alarm filtering
Fully passive and undetectable, SPYNEL and GAIA Air ensure 360° panoramic coverage and can simultaneously detect and track multiple airborne threats, including silent drones and swarms.
This innovation is designed for a wide range of critical security applications, including:
Border control, port and airport security
- Protection of sensitive industrial sites
- Homeland security, special forces, and anti-terrorism operations
- Visitors are invited to discover GAIA Air and explore HGH’s full range of solutions at Stand 5R105 throughout the exhibition.
About HGH:
Founded in France in 1982, HGH has grown into a global leader in infrared technology, specializing in designing, manufacturing, and marketing advanced electro-optic systems and sensors for industrial, defense, and security applications. Driven by continuous innovation, HGH combines cutting-edge infrared expertise with proprietary software and artificial intelligence to deliver high-performance monitoring, measurement, and detection solutions. With operations and subsidiaries across North America, Asia, the Middle East, and Europe, HGH serves a worldwide customer base.
Press Contact:
Karine Sebbah – Communications Project Manager
www.hgh-infrared.com
marketing@hgh-infrared.com
HGH Systèmes Infrarouges and Athena Security Solutions
PRESS RELEASE
For Immediate Release
HGH Systèmes Infrarouges and Athena Security Solutions Sign Strategic Defense Partnership MoU
Bengaluru, India – August 11th, 2025 – HGH Systèmes Infrarouges, a global leader in electro-optics, and Athena Security Solutions, a trusted Indian defense integrator, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to establish a strategic partnership in India. The agreement aims to jointly promote and deploy advanced passive surveillance technologies for India’s growing defense and border security needs.
A Strategic Alliance for Next-Gen Passive Surveillance
HGH Systèmes Infrarouges, based in France, and Athena Security Solutions India Pvt. Ltd., announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to formalize their strategic partnership focused on India’s defense sector. The collaboration was signed in Bengaluru in August 2025 and will target passive wide-area surveillance applications to support India’s growing defense infrastructure and security landscape.
India’s defense sector has seen rapid growth, driven by the government’s increased investment in protecting its long borders and vast coastline. The partnership will leverage Athena’s local expertise and proven track record in system integration with HGH’s cutting-edge SPYNEL technology, a panoramic, passive infrared surveillance solution with real-time detection, tracking, and AI-enabled classification capabilities.
“We were looking to bring our advanced solution for passive air defense to the Indian Ministry of Defense. Athena Security Solutions is the ideal local partner, with a solid reputation and deep experience as a system integrator,” stated Cyril Marchebout, Director of International Development at HGH Systèmes Infrarouges.
“SPYNEL 360° infrared sensors offer unparalleled situational awareness, making them ideal for border and coastal surveillance,” said Mr. Vishnu, Director of Athena Security Solutions. “We are proud to partner with HGH and look forward to strengthening our collaboration in support of India’s defense goals.”
SPYNEL systems can be deployed as standalone units or fully integrated into a centralized command-and-control architecture. Together, HGH Systèmes Infrarouges and Athena Security Solutions will provide complete, field-ready solutions tailored to the operational needs of the Indian armed forces.
About HGH Systèmes Infrarouges
HGH has been specializing in infrared technology for 40 years. Since 1982, the company designs, develops, and supplies electro-optical systems and software for various sectors, including security, defense, oil & gas, and energy. HGH is recognized internationally for its innovation in infrared technology, with a portfolio of advanced sensors and proprietary software. The company is headquartered in Igny, near Paris, within the French Optics Valley.
About Athena Security Solutions
Athena Security Solutions is a leading Indian defense system integrator with a decade-long track record of successfully delivering security solutions to sensitive and strategic sites across India. The company offers custom-integrated surveillance and security systems tailored to national defense and critical infrastructure.
Coline Veyrinas
Media Contact
hgh@hgh-infrared.com
+33 1 69 35 47 70
Milkor and HGH sign co-operation agreement for USVs
PRESS RELEASE
For Immediate Release
Milkor and HGH sign co-operation agreement for USVs and wide area surveillance
Abu Dhabi, 19 February 2025 – Milkor and HGH signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) today to expand their partnership in unmanned and autonomous surface vessels as well as maritime surveillance. The signing ceremony took place at Milkor’s stand at IDEX 2025.
The signing ceremony was attended by HGH CEO Vincent Leboucher and Milkor UAE CEO Julian Coetzee.
Milkor is a global defence contractor operating across multiple domains. In the maritime domain, Milkor delivers a variety of vessels designed to enhance maritime security in a variety of roles, including a range of USVs.
HGH designs, develops, assembles and sells electro-optics systems for industrial, civil, defence and security applications. The company has established itself as an international reference in terms of innovation in infrared technology, through the development of multiple advanced sensors.
The MoU will allow for deeper co-operation on the development of unmanned technology, especially autonomous COLREGS using the SPYNEL-M series of cameras. Additionally, it will allow for better integration of SPYNEL Cameras with Milkor vessels, allowing HGH and Milkor to provide increased capability to end users.
Mr Leboucher stated that, “We are working with Milkor to find the best ways to leverage our respective areas of expertise. In particular, the potential for increased autonomy of USVs is exciting.”
“HGHs line of SPYNEL cameras provides a unique 3600 infrared sensor, opening up unique possibilities for users of our vessels, especially when it comes to unmanned systems. We look forward to deepening our co-operation with HGH,” said Mr Coetzee.
Press Enquiries:
Wesley du Toit, Operations Manager, Milkor
Telephone: +971 58 519 1087
Email: wdutoit@milkor.ae
Heli Reinikainen, Marketing & Communication Manager, HGH
Telephone: +33 1 69 35 47 70
HGH Unveils SPYNEL-F and USV-Based Surveillance Solutions
PRESS RELEASE
For Immediate Release
HGH Unveils SPYNEL-F and USV-Based Surveillance Solutions for Enhanced Situational Awareness at Euronaval 2024
Paris, France – November 4th, 2024 – HGH announces its participation in Euronaval 2024 this week, where the company presents advanced surveillance technologies specifically designed to be deployed on Unmanned Surface Vehicles (USVs) at booth E95.
As USVs become increasingly integral to security and defense operations, they face significant challenges in navigation and situational awareness. Operating in crowded maritime environments, USVs must follow strict navigation protocols while avoiding potential collisions with large ships, emerging islands, floating debris, and small, fast-moving boats. These challenges require reliable surveillance systems that can enhance situational awareness and ensure safe operations.
To address this challenge, HGH introduces the SPYNEL-F, featuring a 180° field of view with full staring capability. This new SPYNEL model offers superior image quality, a 10 Hz video framerate, and integrated digital stabilization. ‘’Such specifications are perfectly suited for effective collision avoidance, real-time tracking and classification of both air and surface targets ‘’ comments Cyril Marchebout, Sales Director at HGH. ‘’For extended operational coverage, two SPYNEL-F units could be configured together to create a full 360° monitoring solution’’ he adds.
The SPYNEL-M solution by HGH is also designed for easy integration into USVs due to its compact and lightweight structure. It provides comprehensive 360° thermal imaging for enhanced situational awareness, allowing USVs to monitor their surroundings effectively, day and night.
HGH also draws attention to its new GAIA Artificial Intelligence, developed directly within the CYCLOPE software and integrated into the USVs at the core of SPYNEL-M and SPYNEL-F. By enhancing the speed and power of detection and classification of maritime and aerial threats, GAIA complements the surveillance capabilities of these systems, ensuring a proactive approach to security and operational efficiency.
HGH invites EURONAVAL attendees to visit booth E95 to learn more about these surveillance technologies and their critical applications in enhancing the operational effectiveness of USVs.
Coline Veyrinas
Media Contact
hgh@hgh-infrared.com
+33 1 69 35 47 70