Forward-Looking Infrared (FLIR) is an airborne or vehicle-mounted thermal imaging system that detects infrared radiation (heat) emitted by objects and surfaces, converting it into a real-time video image for display. Unlike visible-light cameras, FLIR operates in the infrared spectrum (typically mid-wave IR 3–5 µm or long-wave IR 8–14 µm), allowing detection of warm objects against cooler backgrounds even in complete darkness, fog, smoke, or adverse weather.
Key features and military applications include:
- Passive operation — No emitted energy (unlike radar), making it stealthy and difficult to detect/counter.
- Enhanced situational awareness — Enables night/low-visibility navigation, target detection, reconnaissance, and precision targeting.
- Integration in special operations aviation — Standard on 160th SOAR (Night Stalkers) helicopters such as the MH-47G Chinook, MH-60M Black Hawk, and AH-6M/MH-6M Little Bird, often via chin-mounted turrets (e.g., AN/ZSQ series) for low-level flight, threat avoidance, and support in denied environments.
FLIR originated in the 1960s as an evolution from downward-looking infrared scanners to forward-facing, real-time systems, and remains a cornerstone of modern military electro-optical sensors for pilots and operators.