New Talon system will turn conventional British Army rifle optic into thermal sight

An advanced thermal imaging device is being used to upgrade the British Army's night-fighting capabilities and allowing soldiers to identify targets up to a kilometre away in the dark.

The Talon Fused Weapon Sight will be mounted onto the SA80 L85 A3 and KS-1 L403 A1 rifles, effectively turning their conventional sights into thermal sights. 

"We expect the sight to continue to develop and remain truly world-leading," said Brigadier Nick Serle of the British Army Headquarters Programmes Directorate. 

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Developed by defence company Qioptiq, a division of Excelitas, the Talon sight will be the most advanced sight the British Army will have used on an assault rifle.

Capable of detecting and identifying targets at an increased distance of up to one kilometre away in the dark and in daylight, the sight is expected to be in use by 2025.

The Talon recognises a potential target through their body heat, known as thermal recognition, using a 12 μm, 60 Hz uncooled thermal sensor coupled with a near-silent shutter.

The Chester-based Enhanced Light Force Battalion has been tasked since 2021 with trialling the development of the cutting-edge Talon.

During these trials, the soldiers got firsthand experience with the advanced rifle capability and provided feedback on the experience.

Defence Procurement Minister Maria Eagle said: "Rolling out this high-tech rifle sight shows how we're investing in new tech for our soldiers to take the fight to our adversaries.

"The rifle night sights are tried and tested, proving highly effective to keep British soldiers protected in difficult environments.

"The deal is also a great jobs boost for Wales, with £120m invested and 650 jobs sustained in the area."

Excelitas managing director Peter White said: "We're delighted that the British Army and DE&S (Defence Equipment & Support) continue to recognise the enhanced fighting capabilities of our Talon fused weapon sight delivers.

"We look forward to delivering this world-leading system for the end users for many years to come, supported by our 650 skilled employees at our facility in North Wales."