Leonardo‘s U.S. defense subsidiary has purchased Ascendant Engineering Solutions, a producer of gimbals that allow sensors or cameras to rotate and change direction, in a move to offer integrated sensing platforms in the domestic military sector.
Arlington, Virginia-based Leonardo DRS said Thursday it plans to combine its electro-optical and infrared systems with AES’ gimbal technology for use in small unmanned aerial systems and other lightweight military platforms.
Jerry Hathaway, senior vice president and general manager of Leonardo DRS’ electro-optic and infrared systems business, said the combined entity seeks to address a growing demand for small gimbals that could support aerial, ground and maritime platforms.
“The compelling need for smaller and more lightweight sensing systems is one of the most critical priorities of defense forces around the world,” Hathaway added.
Leonardo DRS designed its sensor products to help airborne and ground forces collect intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance imagery and targeting data.
