pv1520
The PV1520 delivers what airborne EO/IR operators have demanded for decades. True 20-inch–class optical performance in a compact 15-inch system.
Built on PVLabs’ FAST stabilization platform, the PV1520 pairs next-generation low-SWaP sensors with exceptional payload aperture and image stability—without the size, weight, or endurance penalties of legacy systems.
Photo by Lincoln Holley on Unsplash
pv1520
Half the Weight. Double the Operational Impact.
Delivers 20″-class ISR performance on light-to-medium AH/UH/HH helicopters and medium fixed-wing tactical and strategic aircraft that cannot support traditional 20″ systems.
Tactical Superiority Operational Flexibility
In a domain long dominated by legacy 20″ systems, the PV1520 delivers a decisive operational advantage: see farther, fly higher, adapt faster.
Operators can conduct higher-altitude ISR missions and transition across mission types without the airframe modifications or performance trade-offs imposed by incumbent systems.
Built for Situational Awareness
The PV1520 supports continuous situational awareness during detection, identification, and tracking:
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Dual independent IR channels (IRW + IRN) with simultaneous outputs
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Step-stare stability with LOS-axis control to reduce motion blur
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High-accuracy geolocation via integrated INS
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Simultaneous raw sensor outputs for seamless mission-system integration
FAST Platform Advantage
The PV1520 inherits the full stabilization performance of the FAST platform—ensuring targets remain locked, images remain stable, and long-range DORI performance is preserved in high-dynamic environments.
This stability is critical when extracting maximum range and clarity from modern low-SWaP sensors.
Compact Size. Full Capability
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High-performance stabilization in close-in orbits
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Precision geolocation independent of aircraft motion
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Fleet commonality across the PVLabs system family
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Field-upgradeable to evolve with changing CONOPS
Primary Mission Profile
The PV1520 thrives across tactical and strategic ISR CONOPS:
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Class 3 UAS (MALE / HALE)
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Light and medium ISR aircraft (King Air 350, Caravan, PC-12)
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Regional platforms (C-295, Dash-8, ATR-72)
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Multi-mission helicopters (H135 through H225M)
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Aerostat deployments requiring 20″-class performance without size penalties
Operational Edge
Delivers 20″-class ISR performance on helicopters and light fixed-wing aircraft that cannot support traditional 20″ systems. 20″-class reach in a 15″ footprint
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~60% weight reduction vs common 20″ systems
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Multi-domain, dual-use capability (ISR, SAR, maritime, public safety)
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Deployment without costly airframe modification
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Modular upgrades to remain relevant as threats evolve
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ITAR-free for unrestricted global deployment
