Detecting the Invisible with SWIR

What happens when you combine cutting-edge SWIR optics, next-generation sensors, and one of the harshest real-world environments imaginable? You get a glimpse into the future of tactical surveillance and laser detection. Recently, the Kowa and Emberion team spent an incredible few days at a UK test site alongside Roland Alford of Alford Technologies, conducting a series of high-impact trials designed to push imaging systems beyond the lab and into true operational conditions.

Seeing 2.0µm Lasers Clearly

High-power 2.0µm fiber lasers are becoming increasingly important across advanced defence, surveillance, and range-finding applications. However, detecting these wavelengths reliably especially at distance and through chaotic atmospheric effects has remained a serious challenge.

During a controlled explosive event, the team successfully demonstrated clear detection of a high-power 2.0µm laser source, even in the presence of extreme post-blast conditions such as:

• Smoke and debris clouds
• Heat distortion
• Rapid light and contrast shifts
• Environmental occlusion immediately following detonation

Despite these obstacles, the laser signature remained visible and trackable.

High-Speed Imaging Through the Chaos

One part of the demonstration was the use of high-speed imaging at 400 frames per second, capturing explosive events in incredible detail.
Even after the blast, when most imaging systems struggle due to lingering particulate effects the SWIR platform continued delivering clarity.

Collaboration Driving Innovation

These achievements were made possible through close collaboration with outstanding partners, including:
• Emberion
• Futonics
• Alford Technologies

Together, the teams showcased how integrated SWIR systems can outperform traditional approaches, especially in demanding real-world scenarios where reliability matters most.

Optics That Made the Difference

At the heart of this performance was Kowa's latest lineup of precision SWIR lens solutions, purpose-built for advanced detection and long-range imaging. Featured Kowa Optics Included:
LM25HC-VIS-SW: A 25mm wide angle VIS-SWIR lens delivering exceptional clarity across both visible and SWIR wavelengths andideal for multi-band surveillance applications.
LMZ20750M3P-SW-C: A powerful 20–750mm SWIR zoom lens offering unmatched flexibility for long-range tactical imaging and target acquisition. These optics provided the sharpness, transmission, and durability required to maintain visibility even through post-explosion obscurants.

   

Sensor + Optics: The Next Generation of SWIR Detection

Paired with Emberion's latest VS20 and VS17 eSWIR cameras, the system successfully demonstrated:
• Detection of 2.0µm laser wavelengths and beyond.
• Strong imaging performance before, during, and after explosive events.
• Clear proof that SWIR platforms are ready for next-gen operational environments.

Shaping the Future of Tactical Surveillance and Range Finding
This testing highlights the direction the industry is heading. Next-generation SWIR systems combining:
• Advanced sensor innovation
• Precision-engineered optics
• Real-world rugged performance...

are redefining what's possible in:
• Tactical surveillance
• Laser range finding
• Threat detection
• Advanced battlefield imaging

Kowa is proud to be at the forefront of this progress, helping deliver the optical solutions that make detection possible even when the environment is at its most extreme.

Watch the full video