Emberion demonstrates see through grenade smoke & Laser detection (LRF) using its SWIR cameras
In modern military operations, concealment is a key factor in mission success. As concealment strategies evolve, so too must detection technologies. This case study presents a field demonstration that explored the effectiveness of short-wave infrared (SWIR) imaging in overcoming visual barriers posed by military-grade smoke.
Screening smoke using military grade smoke is a key countermeasure used in warfare zones to camouflage soldiers, land systems (tanks) and is one of the most widely used counter-surveillance tools, a dense cloud deployed to mask troop movement, vehicle relocation or battlefield withdrawal.
Purpose :
The purpose of the test was to assess the capabilities of SWIR cameras Emberion VS20 and Emberion 17 with wide spectral range from 400-2100nm & 400-1750nm respectively. When paired with advanced optics, can deliver visibility where conventional imaging systems fail. The test environment included a purpose-built smoke testing facility designed to simulate battlefield conditions. A combination of Emberion’s VS series VIS-SWIR cameras and the Kowa LM25HC-VIS-SW lens (wide spectral range lens) was used to capture footage of a soldier and a vehicle navigating through thick non-IRR screening smoke. In addition to that a laser range finder (LRF) was also used to detect pulses at 1550nm from a vehicle. To provide a direct comparison, identical scenes were recorded in the visible and SWIR spectral ranges.
Pictures showing VS20 SWIR capture of see through smoke image
Performance
The difference in performance was immediate and dramatic. In the visible spectrum, the smoke rendered both the soldier and vehicle completely invisible. In the SWIR range, operating at a wavelength of 1850 nanometres and supported by an LP1850 filter, the shapes and movements of the test subjects remained clearly visible. Details such as outlines, motion and location were retained with high contrast, proving that SWIR technology can deliver actionable visuals even in low-visibility, smoke-filled environments.This test clearly illustrates how SWIR imaging can serve as a tactical advantage on the battlefield. Situational awareness during combat maneuvers or retreat phases is critical. The ability to detect movement and confirm targets even under heavy smoke cover enhances both mission effectiveness and operational safety. Whether for surveillance, target acquisition or navigation, the ability to “see through” screening smoke changes the dynamics of engagement and defense.
SWIR image depicting laser detection at 1550nm and through smoke compared to visible image which cannot see through or detect the laser.
A key factor in the system’s performance was the use of the broad spectral range camera with high dynamic range (HDR>120dB) in combination with optics and zoom lenses for testing the capabilities. Emberion cameras have non saturing performance and can adapt to bright days with varying exposure time settings using its UI. This precision-engineered quantum dot based sensors along camera lens (wide angle and zoom lenses) is designed for imaging from the visible to the short-wave infrared range, maintaining sharp focus across the entire spectrum without the need for refocusing. Combined with the Emberion camera, the lens delivered the stability and detail necessary to succeed in a demanding and unpredictable environment. Its optical design, featuring extra-low dispersion glass and wideband coatings, ensures high transmission and clarity in SWIR imaging.
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Get in touch with the Emberion team to find out more about the products and application.
Emberion would like to thank Kowa for this collaboration.