- Advanced Mid-Wave High-Definition Infrared Detector Elevates Airborne Payload Capabilities with Extended Operational Performance
Misgav, Israel. 25 March 2025 . SCD, a global leader in defense technology specializing in the development and manufacture of a wide range of cooled and uncooled infrared detectors and high-power laser diodes, announces substantial orders from two North American customers for its Mini Blackbird 1280 HFM detector. These initial deliveries will integrate into airborne payloads, underscoring SCD’s capability to deliver high-performance, compact infrared solutions designed for scalable deployment across tactical platforms.
The Mini Blackbird 1280 HFM enhances 24/7 operational endurance for continuous surveillance missions, reducing the need for frequent platform rotations. Its exceptional image quality and sensitivity enable precise target identification at extended ranges, even in adverse weather or low-visibility conditions. The detector’s lightweight design (<350g) and simplified integration process accelerate deployment timelines for tactical UAVs, manned aircraft, and portable systems, ensuring rapid mission readiness.
Engineered for demanding environments, the Mini Blackbird combines SCD’s proprietary HFM technology with a 1280×1024 MWIR focal plane array (10µm pixel pitch), achieving optimal performance at 120K while minimizing power consumption (<5W at 25°C). The integrated linear cooler ensures reliable operation in harsh conditions, supporting extended mission durations without compromising efficiency. Advanced radiometric capabilities provide operators with critical real-time intelligence for enhanced threat detection, environmental monitoring, and comprehensive situational awareness.
With a high frame rate of up to 90 Hz for full-window imaging, the Mini Blackbird delivers the responsiveness required to counter fast-evolving battlefield threats. Its legacy connector with camera link compatibility and streamlined communication protocol simplify integration into existing systems, reducing operational complexity for defense partners.
“These orders validate our commitment to redefining infrared detection with extended operational duration technology for modern defense needs,” said Shai Fishbein, VP of Business Development & Marketing at SCD. “The Mini Blackbird’s balance of performance and scalability empowers integrators to deploy advanced surveillance across multi-domain operations. By optimizing SWaP-C without compromising sensitivity, we’re enabling forces to maintain tactical superiority in increasingly contested environments. Our leadership in IR technology across the entire spectrum, combined with our ability to deliver hundreds of units annually, positions SCD to meet the growing demand for scalable IR solutions in diverse defense applications, from high-end systems to mass distribution.”
