In a significant boost to its naval capabilities, the Egyptian Navy has selected French defense technology leader Safran to equip its new fleet of Offshore Patrol Vessels (OPVs) with state-of-the-art optronic and navigation systems. The decision comes as part of a broader modernization program aimed at strengthening Egypt’s maritime defense and ensuring greater operational effectiveness in complex environments.
Under the contract, NVL Egypt—a joint venture between the Egyptian government and renowned shipbuilder Lürssen—has chosen Safran’s cutting-edge VIGY 4 optronic sights and Argonyx inertial navigation systems for deployment across ten of Egypt’s new OPVs, which will be constructed at Alexandria Shipyard.
Advanced Technology for Superior Maritime Operations
The VIGY 4 sight is a high-performance, long-range observation and targeting system that promises to enhance the Egyptian Navy’s operational capabilities, especially during challenging conditions. With its advanced panoramic capabilities, the VIGY 4 is able to detect, identify, and track threats from long distances, even in low visibility, darkness, or adverse weather conditions such as fog. The system is equipped with a Short Wave InfraRed (SWIR) channel that provides clear images in difficult environments.
A standout feature of the VIGY 4 is its modular payload, which includes a cooled MWIR thermal imager, a daylight FULL HD TV camera, a laser rangefinder, and a laser pointer. These tools enable precise targeting and coordination with weapon systems, including small and medium-caliber armaments, making it a versatile solution for defense operations.
In addition to its surveillance and targeting functions, the VIGY 4 integrates automatic video tracking capabilities and can link to radar data for enhanced tracking accuracy.
Meanwhile, the Argonyx inertial navigation system, built on Safran’s patented HRG Crystal gyroscope technology, provides highly precise navigation data crucial for both mission success and weapon system stabilization. This advanced system ensures reliable operation even in GNSS-denied environments, where satellite navigation is unavailable. The Argonyx system is designed to meet the rigorous demands of modern naval operations, ensuring the highest levels of performance in any condition.
Strengthening Egypt’s Maritime Security
“We are proud to contribute to the modernization of the Egyptian Navy,” said Alexandre Ziegler, Executive Vice President of Safran Electronics & Defence. “Our cutting-edge solutions will not only enhance the precision and safety of Egypt’s maritime missions but will also play a pivotal role in safeguarding the nation’s sovereignty on the seas.”
The integration of Safran’s technologies into Egypt’s new OPVs is part of the country’s broader defense strategy to enhance its naval power and protect its maritime interests. The OPVs, set to be built in Egypt by Alexandria Shipyard, are designed to offer greater versatility and protection for Egypt’s expansive coastline.
In recent years, Egypt has also bolstered its naval fleet through partnerships with Lürssen, receiving several advanced vessels, including 60-meter and 40-meter coastal patrol craft. These initiatives align with ongoing projects, such as the CC-60 Compact Combatant and PV-43 HRM Offshore Patrol Vessel, further solidifying the nation’s defense capabilities.
