Engaged in the Foch mission of the Carrier Strike Group, the European Air Group has been implementing, since February 28, 2020, the new TALIOS (Targeting Long-range Identification Optronic System) as part of ground-support training missions and maritime surveillance. This ramp-up phase will soon be followed by operational commissioning on Rafale Marine version which will authorize its use in a wide range of operations. Thales reports that its new-generation Targeting Long-Range Identification Optronic System (TALIOS) laser targeting pod has successfully completed qualification testing by the French defence procurement agency (DGA).
The Talios pod combines a reconnaissance and targeting capability with visibility of the entire critical decision chain, from gathering intelligence to neutralising threats. It combines the latest generation of high-resolution electro-optical and infrared sensors with line-of-sight stabilisation and advanced image processing capabilities. The pod also provides a long-range threat engagement capability to counter fixed and moving targets. The pod’s through-life support system has also been qualified. This includes the SmartFleet fleet management and predictive maintenance solution, designed to prevent equipment failures that could disrupt an operational mission and increases overall fleet availability.
The Talios is a major component of the new F3R standard for the Rafale, which received approval late last year. Thales said Talios pod deliveries will begin before the end of the year and continue until 2022. The French military has said that new Rafales will all be released at the F3R standard and older ones will be upgraded to reach it. The French military plans to keep the Rafale in service until the 2040s. While Rafale is the most notable planned use for the Talios, it is also compatible with combat aircraft, Thales said. No specific examples of other planned platforms have been named.
