Category: News

AVT Australia is pleased to announce the launch of two new CM62 variants, a Tri-Zoom EO configuration and an Extended LWIR configuration, to offer increased multi-domain flexibility without sacrificing the superior ISR capabilities of the CM62 Micro Gimbal.

 

The CM62 Micro Gimbal is the first payload of its kind that delivers superior EO/LWIR capabilities in a miniature 260g system. The CM62 incorporates an innovative onboard video processor to provide high definition EO imagery with 25x zoom, along with a custom long-wave infrared (LWIR) core. For reliability in all-weather conditions and environments, the CM62 is ruggedised to an IP67 rating.

 

The new Tri-Zoom EO configuration has an intermediate lens for enhanced mid-range performance and a longer focal-length narrow lens, resulting in 42% more pixels on target compared to the standard CM62 configuration. This makes it perfect for situations when enhanced EO image quality is required for daytime operations. The system is configurable to either single stream continuous zoom (56° HFOV – 0.8° HFOV) or dual stream, with stream #1 providing 56° HFOV – 5° HFOV and stream #2 providing 5° HFOV – 0.8° HFOV.

 

The new Extended LWIR configuration has an 18° HFOV, resulting in 84% more pixels on target than the standard configuration CM62. This makes it perfect for situations where extended standoff distances are required.

 

AVT Australia will be presenting the CM62 family on their stand at the Avalon 2023 tradeshow in Geelong, Victoria. To learn more, visit ascentvision.com.au/cm62 or contact sales@ascentvision.com.

 

AVT Australia’s CM234 gimbal has been shortlisted for the Avalon Innovation Awards 2023, presented by AMDA Foundation Limited. The award recognises Australian organisations at the forefront of defence innovation in the domains of aerospace, aviation, and space.

Dale Heinken, President & Managing Director, said “It is a tremendous honour to be included in the list of companies nominated for the Avalon 2023 Innovation award. The breadth of awe-inspiring capabilities being delivered by these companies is humbling, and we are grateful that we are included with them.”

The CM234 gimbal combines 7 sensors in a 4-axis stabilised, compact imaging system to deliver superior capabilities in tactical uncrewed aerial system (TUAS) operations. It weighs under 6.5kg and includes high-definition wide and narrow EO, MWIR, Short-Wave InfraRed (SWIR), a laser range finder, a laser target designator (LTD), and a laser pointer.

The CM234 is designed, built, tested, and manufactured in Australia and leverages a local supply chain to deliver superior capability to the end-user.

AVT Australia Named AAUS Industry Champion Finalist

The Australian Association for Uncrewed Systems (AAUS) recently announced AVT Australia as a finalist for the AAUS Industry Champion Awards 2022. Shortlisted for the AAUS Innovation – Technology Award, the CM234 is a next-generation gyro-stabilised imaging system, designed to transform airborne intelligence, surveillance, target acquisition and reconnaissance (ISTAR) operations. 

The CM234 ‘Spitfire’ gimbal, is a light weight, 4-axis stabilised, seven sensor imaging system. 

Designed, developed, and produced in Australia, the CM234 originated as a Defence Innovation Hub contract and was later selected for incorporation into the Land 129 Phase 3 program to support sovereign capability.

Not only does CM234 deliver an advanced ISR and target acquisition capability to the Australian Army during tactical unmanned aerial systems (TUAS) operations, the CM234 supports border protection, force protection, or search and rescue missions and can be easily implemented across a variety of platforms.

Dale Heinken, President at AVT Australia, said  “We are delighted to have been named a finalist for the AAUS Innovation Award for the third time in 4 years. The CM234 ‘Spitfire’ gimbal is a revolutionary system that will transform airborne ISR capabilities. We are pleased that the innovation of the CM234 Spitfire has been acknowledged by the AAUS for its ability to shape the uncrewed aerial vehicle industry.”

AVT Australia is pleased to announce it will be sponsoring the Spitfire Association’s 60^th Anniversary Dinner, a milestone event that celebrates the six decades of support the association has provided to the men and women of the Australian Defence Force.

In support of the 60^th anniversary of the Australian Spitfire Association, AVT Australia commemorates the legacy of the veterans who served in World War II by naming its most advanced and capable innovation after the Spitfire.

The Spitfire played a pivotal role in the defence of Australia during World War II and was a milestone in the development of the Australian Defence Force, serving as a critical platform for the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF). In recognition of the sacrifice and resilience of the crews who served in the Second World War, AVT Australia named its seven-sensor imaging system the CM234 Spitfire.

Geoff Zuber, President of the Spitfire Association and the son of a RAAF Spitfire pilot, stated “our association today remains relevant many years after most of our founders have passed away. The Spitfire Association engages in projects with organisations that develop innovative Australian sovereign industrial capability such as AVT Australia. In doing so we continue the strong tradition of continuous contribution, established by our Spitfire pilots and crews. We are delighted to have AVT Australia as a sponsor and are proud they felt the name Spitfire reflected their own product, the CM234 Spitfire.

“The Supermarine Spitfire was designed as a disruptive capability and had significant technological advantages when introduced into service, resulting it becoming the most widely used fighter of World War II. These were the same attributes that we considered when initiating our development work through the Australian Defence Innovation Hub” said Philipp Senn, Chief Technology Officer at AVT Australia. “It seemed fitting to name our project “CM234 Spitfire” to commemorate the spirit and values of the men and women who served alongside a leading-edge capability”.

President at AVT Australia, Dale Heinken, added “the motto of the Spitfire Association, ‘Carry the Spirit Forward’, is reflected in our day to day operational and engineering efforts, as we serve to deliver world-leading capabilities to the Australian Defence Force”.

The CM234 Spitfire imaging system was designed and developed at AVT Australia’s Melbourne facility, and represents the latest in gimbal innovation. Combining seven sensors and lasers in a compact 6.5kg gyro-stabilised imaging system, the CM234 Spitfire provides two 12-megapixel electro-optical (EO) sensors, mid-wave infrared (MWIR), short-wave infrared (SWIR), a laser range finder, laser target designator, and a laser pointer. It delivers enhanced situational awareness to the war fighter by providing four-axis stabilisation, electronic stabilisation, and additional digital roll stabilisation for greater accuracy in intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR), and target acquisition operations.

The CM234 Spitfire gimbal is one of several advanced imaging systems designed, developed and produced within Australia by a passionate workforce that is motivated to work on cutting-edge technology. A leading supplier of lightweight, gyro-stabilised and multi-sensor imaging systems for intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance, and target acquisition operations, AVT Australia has been recognised for its expertise in advanced engineering services and has become a trusted supplier of imaging solutions and software development for its Australian and international customers. Its systems are supporting airborne, ground and maritime operations in over 50 countries. 

AVT Australia would like to congratulate Minister for Defence Industry, the Hon Melissa Price MP, for being appointed the role of Minister for Science and Technology. 

The emphasis on Science and Technology is significant in strengthening Australian Sovereign Industrial Capability. By focussing on these capabilities, SMEs and start-ups across Australia are supported in innovating world-leading technologies. 

Minister Price’s leadership in Science and Technology has been fundamental in shaping AVT Australia’s growth. The development of the Micro Gimbal was funded through the Defence Innovation Hub (DIH) and has resulted in successful commercialisation, with dozens of systems rolling off the production line to support customers.

Chief Technology Officer, Philipp Senn, said “AVT Australia welcomes the strong leadership of Minister Price in the areas of Science and Technology. They are key to building and growing our Sovereign Industrial Capability.”

28 September, 2021, Melbourne

AVT Australia has announced the launch of an independent website. The new site has been developed as part of AVT Australia’s initiative to provide an improved user-experience to its key customers and partners. 

The website incorporates customised content, a modern layout, and ease of navigation. Visitors will have access to the latest company news and announcements, and can seamlessly browse the company’s range of products and services. AVT Australia encourages visitors to explore the new website at www.ascentvision.com.au.

A key focus of the website is the careers page, where AVT Australia will host upcoming career opportunities for local Australian talent. As leaders in Australian developed lightweight gyro-stabilised imaging systems, AVT Australia is continuously expanding its teams across all departments, offering career opportunities for individuals of all experience, including industry professionals, academic doctors, retired military veterans, and graduates. As a strong supporter of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), AVT Australia hosts work experience placements, internships, and ADF secondment opportunities. To find out more, visit the careers page at www.ascentvision.com.au/careers.

AVT Australia is a leading supplier of lightweight, gyro-stabilised and multi-sensor imaging systems for intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance, and target acquisition operations, AVT Australia has been recognised for its expertise in advanced engineering services and has become a trusted supplier of imaging solutions and software development for its Australian and international customers. Its systems are supporting airborne, ground and maritime operations in over 50 countries.

July 2, 2021, Melbourne, Australia

AVT Australia, specialists in lightweight, gyro-stabilised imaging systems for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR), has appointed Dale Heinken as President. Heinken joined the team this week in AVT Australia’s Headquarters in Melbourne.

Heinken returned to Australia last month following a successful 26-year career in the U.S. Navy. During his years of service, Heinken demonstrated exceptional skills in leadership, particularly in his recent position as Commanding Officer of the USS Boxer (LHD 4) amphibious assault ship. During his last deployment, Heinken experienced first-hand operation of AVT Australia’s CM202U gyro-stabilised imaging system and CUAS Suite software.

As President of AVT Australia, Heinken will play a critical role in leading the executive team. In addition to running day-to-day operations and management of the organisation, Heinken will provide strategic leadership to further strengthen AVT Australia’s operations and grow the organisation in order to ensure the continuous

delivery of engineering and manufacturing excellence. Heinken’s commitment to service is perfectly aligned to AVT Australia’s strategic objective.

“It is a pleasure to join a fantastic company that is leading the field of gimbal development for surveillance and counter UAS operations” said Dale Heinken, “The AVT Australia team is stacked with brilliant, dedicated, and personable people that embody excellence. I look forward to leading this team in continuing to provide the systems our customers rely upon from fighting wildfires to countering drones.”

“We are delighted to welcome Dale Heinken to our team at AVT Australia” said AVT Australia Chief Technology Officer (CTO), Dr. Philipp Senn, “Dale is an outstanding addition to the team, and will make a critical contribution that will elevate AVT Australia to the next level as a continued defence partner and Australian Sovereign Capability provider.

“Dale Heinken has gained a vast and diverse set of leadership skills from his time at the US Naval Academy, and throughout his distinguished naval career.” AVT Australia Managing Director, Joel Pineiro, added, “Those skills that have been refined over his professional career, bring invaluable knowledge and experience to an amazing and talented team in a rapid growth phase.

AVT Australia supports veterans transitioning out of the military by offering opportunities that leverage their military background and experience to create outstanding customer outcomes. As President at AVT Australia, Heinken is fulfilling a wedding promise to his wife, a Tasmania native, to return to Australia.

Heinken will have continued leadership and organisational support from Dr. Senn, AVT Australia’s CTO and Joel Pineiro, AVT COO & AVTA Managing Director. The leadership team is further strengthened by Evert van Schuppen, a 7-year veteran of AVT Australia who is taking on the role of Director of Operations, and Jason Clifton, a 10-year veteran of AVT Australia, who was recently appointed as Director of Business Operations.

This week, AVT Australia has been named a finalist for the Australian Defence Industry Awards 2021, shortlisted for the Defence Innovator of the Year – Company Award.

The award recognises companies that have demonstrated support in strenghtening Australia’s defence and national security capability, whilst achieving business growth and capitalisation of market opportunities. 

Over the past fiscal year, AVT Australia successfully completed the design, development, testing, and low rate initial production (LRIP) of the CM62 Micro Gimbal. This system was developed under a Defence Innovation Hub contract. The CM62 has achieved a series of successful demonstrations to key stakeholders in the Australian Defence industry.

Public launch of the CM62 Micro Gimbal took place in June at Land Forces 2021, at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre.

Since its launch, the CM62 Micro Gimbal has proven to be a substantial capability improvement for defence and commercial aerial ISR applications by providing a lightweight, high-performance solution for sUAS.

For more information on the CM62 Micro Gimbal, click here or contact a member of the sales team at sales@ascentvision.com.au.