Raytheon, an RTX business, successfully demonstrated the first event-based mid-wave infrared (MWIR) camera, enabling real-time tracking of high-speed objects while slashing processing and power requirements. The technology tracks only pixel-level motion changes, producing a continuous event stream unlike traditional frame-based cameras that capture full images.
In a Northern California test, the camera monitored multiple targets including ground vehicles, aircraft, and live fires, capturing rapid motions beyond conventional infrared capabilities. This delivers near-instantaneous activity views by reporting motion changes alone, not entire frames.
“This technology represents a new way of sensing the world in mid-wave infrared,” said Colin Whelan, president of Advanced Technology at Raytheon. “By focusing only on motion instead of recording every frame and analyzing after the fact, we gain the ability to track very fast objects with far less data and processing, enabling much quicker threat detection and response time.”
Developed under DARPA’s Fast Event-based Neuromorphic Camera and Electronics (FENCE) program, the sensor introduces a ground-up architecture for defense applications. It enhances battlefield awareness, base protection, missile guidance, and surveillance from aircraft and unmanned systems, critical in high-clutter, data-intensive environments where speed challenges legacy sensors.
Raytheon’s Advanced Technology team now plans follow-on demonstrations across broader mission scenarios and target types, with the initial contract complete.