Military & Defense Systems

Where optics meet operations

Mission-Ready Optics

Precision Filters and Coatings for Defense Systems

Optical filters and coatings play a critical role in modern defense and aerospace systems—from EO/IR targeting platforms and UAV payloads to infrared imaging and laser-based sensing. These systems rely on precise wavelength control, optical durability, and consistent performance across demanding operational environments.

Andover Corporation provides optical filters, infrared filters, and optical coatings that are integrated into systems where spectral accuracy and environmental stability directly impact overall performance.

    • Targeting & EO/IR Systems: Optical filters and coatings support EO/IR imaging systems, laser designation, and target identification by isolating key spectral bands and improving contrast across varying visibility conditions.
    • UAV & Airborne Payloads: Optical components are integrated into UAV imaging systems and airborne payloads, supporting surveillance, ISR, and remote sensing applications under vibration and environmental stress.
    • Infrared Imaging Systems: Infrared filters for MWIR and LWIR systems enhance thermal contrast and isolate target signatures in defense imaging applications.
    • Laser & LiDAR Systems: Optical filters and coatings support laser-based systems—including rangefinders and LiDAR—by isolating specific wavelengths and improving signal clarity in active sensing environments.
    • Space & High-Altitude Systems: Optical coatings and filters support stable performance in aerospace and space-based sensing systems operating under thermal cycling, vacuum, and radiation exposure.

Our optical components are integrated into a range of defense and aerospace systems, supporting imaging, targeting, and sensing applications across real-world platforms.

Optical solutions for defense systems

Digital elevation model. GIS product made after proccesing aerial pictures taken from a drone. It shows city urban area with roads and suburbs

Optical Filters in LiDAR and Laser Technology

While lasers have long been integral to defense applications, their impact now spans manufacturing, environmental monitoring, biomedical imaging, aerospace, and...
A close-up of a modern targeting pod displayed on a clear stand at an outdoor exhibition. The pod features multiple optical windows, which may utilize chalcogenide glass for enhanced infrared performance. A caution label warns of rotating parts, highlighting the pod’s gimbal stabilization system. Targeting pods like this are essential for military aircraft, providing advanced electro-optical and infrared (EO/IR) capabilities for precision targeting and reconnaissance.

Enhancing Precision in Defense: Optical Components for Targeting Pods

In the rapidly evolving world of defense technology, targeting pods play a pivotal role in modern military operations. These advanced...
A collection of red-tinted chalcogenide glass optics, including circular, square, and cylindrical components, sourced from SCHOTT North America. These infrared optical materials are used in advanced optical systems for defense, aerospace, and industrial applications. Chalcogenide glass provides superior infrared transmission and thermal stability, making it a valuable alternative to germanium for IR optics.

Chalcogenide Glass: Advancing Optical Innovation in Defense

In the world of optical engineering for defense applications, material selection plays a critical role in system performance, durability, and...

Why Choose Andover for Defense Solutions

Precision optics for mission-critical military applications

Combat-Ready Performance

  • Extreme environment durability
  • High laser damage threshold coatings
  • Advanced thermal imaging solutions
  • Multi/hyperspectral capabilities
  • Space-qualified radiation hardening
  • Battle-tested optical designs

Technical
Superiority

  • High-efficiency IR filters
  • Custom dichroic arrays
  • UV through far-IR coverage
  • High-precision edge filters
  • Ultra-stable wavelength control
  • AS9100/ITAR certified manufacturing

Defense Systems Expertise

Precision optics for decisive advantage

Andover delivers mission-critical optical solutions for military and defense applications, combining advanced coating technologies with combat-ready durability to meet the most demanding battlefield and aerospace requirements.

Technical Specifications
  • Operating temps -62°C to +200°C
  • Wavelength range 193nm to 15μm
  • Surface quality to MIL-PRF-13830B
  • Humidity per MIL-C-675A
  • Durability per MIL-C-48497A
Qualified Features
  • AS9100/ISO 9001 certified production
  • ITAR registered facility
  • Full military specification compliance
  • Space-flight qualification testing
  • Environmental survivability validation

Defense Featured Products

Hyperspectral Imaging Systems

Advanced Filters for Actionable Intelligence

Our hyperspectral imaging filters are engineered to enable precise target discrimination and superior threat detection across diverse surveillance platforms. Each filter is precision-crafted to ensure optimal performance in both airborne reconnaissance and ground-based security systems.

Enhanced Detection Capabilities

  • Ultra-precise wavelength separation (193nm - 14μm)
  • Superior out-of-band rejection >OD4
  • Customizable bandwidths from 0.02% to >10%
  • Temperature-stabilized performance (-62°C to +200°C)
  • Multiple coating technologies for optimized transmission
  • Combat-proven durability in extreme environments

Mission-Critical Applications

  • Target identification and classification
  • Camouflage detection and penetration
  • Chemical/biological agent detection
  • Mineral and material identification
  • Multi-spectral surveillance fusion
  • Day/night operational capability

Frequently Asked Questions

What role do optical filters and coatings play in defense systems?

Optical filters and coatings are used to control how light interacts within a system—enabling detection, imaging, and targeting functions. In defense applications, they help isolate specific wavelengths, improve contrast, and reduce unwanted signal, supporting systems such as EO/IR imaging, laser rangefinding, and hyperspectral sensing.

What types of defense systems use optical filters?

Optical filters and coatings are integrated into a wide range of defense systems, including thermal imaging and night vision, target acquisition systems, missile guidance platforms, reconnaissance systems, and space-based surveillance.

How are optical filters used in EO/IR and targeting systems?

In EO/IR and targeting systems, optical filters are used to isolate specific spectral bands, improving the ability to detect and track targets under varying conditions. For example, infrared filters enhance thermal imaging performance by allowing sensors to focus on heat signatures while blocking irrelevant wavelengths.

How do optical coatings improve system performance in harsh environments?

Optical coatings enhance both performance and durability by protecting components from environmental stress while maintaining transmission and spectral accuracy. In defense systems, coatings must withstand extreme temperatures, humidity, vibration, and exposure to harsh conditions without degrading performance.

This can include solutions such as anti-reflective coatings to improve transmission, as well as diamond-like carbon (DLC) coatings that provide added surface hardness and environmental resistance for demanding applications.

What are hyperspectral filters and how are they used in defense?

Hyperspectral filters enable imaging systems to capture data across many narrow wavelength bands. In defense applications, this allows for advanced capabilities such as material identification, camouflage detection, and enhanced surveillance by distinguishing subtle spectral differences between objects.

Are optical components used in space-based defense systems?

Yes, optical filters and coatings are used in space-based systems for surveillance, imaging, and sensing. These components must maintain stable performance under vacuum conditions, radiation exposure, and extreme thermal cycling over extended mission durations.

Can optical filters be customized for specific defense applications?

Yes, optical filters and coatings are often customized based on system requirements such as wavelength range, bandwidth, environmental conditions, and mechanical constraints. Custom designs allow components to be optimized for specific platforms, sensors, and mission objectives.

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