Eurodorne maritime © Airbus Defence and Space SAU 2024
Safran Electronics & Defense has reached a key milestone in the Eurodrone program with the validation of the architecture and design of the EUROFLIR™ 610, marking a significant step toward Europe’s next-generation Medium Altitude Long Endurance (MALE) remotely piloted aircraft.
Following a successful Critical Design Review (CDR), the long-range electro-optical system will now enter its prototype manufacturing phase, in close collaboration with Leonardo S.p.A., responsible for Eurodrone’s Airborne Mission System.
A New Standard in Airborne Observation and Targeting
Built on the proven EUROFLIR™ 410 architecture, the EUROFLIR™ 610 integrates a multispectral telescope, high-accuracy line-of-sight stabilization, and precision geolocation and targeting capabilities.
With a 25-inch electro-optical system designed for optimal performance under demanding operational conditions—day or night, clear or degraded weather—it sets a new benchmark for ISTAR missions, combining range, stability, and image fidelity rarely achieved in its class.
Integrating Artificial Intelligence for Next-Generation ISR
The EUROFLIR™ 610 will soon incorporate embedded artificial intelligence (AI), leveraging Safran’s internal expertise and the integration of Safran.AI in 2024.
AI-enhanced processing will improve terrain recognition, target classification, and autonomous identification, while reducing operator workload. These capabilities will allow real-time imaging, automatic detection, and target counting — delivering a truly intelligent electro-optical system ready for future European missions.
Strengthening Europe’s Strategic Autonomy
Managed by the Organisation for Joint Armament Cooperation (OCCAR) and led by Airbus Defence and Space GmbH, the Eurodrone program will provide 20 systems (over 60 drones) for the air forces of France, Germany, Italy, and Spain.
As a cornerstone subsystem, the EUROFLIR™ 610 enhances Europe’s sovereign access to advanced Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) technologies, reinforcing strategic autonomy in a rapidly evolving global security environment.
This milestone confirms both the technological maturity of EUROFLIR™ 610 and the program’s momentum toward operational deployment.
Expanding Mission Applications
Beyond Eurodrone integration, the EUROFLIR™ 610 is being offered for a wide range of manned ISR and maritime patrol aircraft.
Its ultra-long-range observation and identification capabilities extend mission reach and operational effectiveness, supporting early threat detection, accurate tracking, and reliable target identification in complex maritime or land scenarios.
These capabilities will significantly improve situational awareness and decision-making speed across European and allied defense operations.
About Safran Electronics & Defense
Safran Electronics & Defense designs and produces high-tech solutions in optronics, avionics, electronics, and critical software for civil and defense applications.
The company is part of the Safran Group, a global leader in aerospace propulsion and equipment, with operations across Europe, North America, and Asia.
Source: https://www.safran-group.com/news/euroflirtm-610-another-milestone-completed-eurodrone-program-2025-10-15
Photo Credit:
Eurodrone maritime © Airbus Defence and Space SAU 2024
Eurodrone armed © Airbus Defence and Space SAU 2023
Eurodrone Maritime © Airbus Defence and Space SAU 2024
A321XLR maritime patrol © Airbus Defence and Space SAU 2025
