*Christos Loizou

The DEFENCE ReDEFiNED team visited the 2023 Thessaloniki International Exhibition and the Armed Forces hall in particular.

SOF’s Polaris MRZR D4 with FLIR electro-optic sensor

Among the exhibits, we distinguished the Polaris MRZR D4 all-terrain vehicle of the Special Operations Forces Group (ETA) featuring a FLIR electro-optical set sensor which was recently installed.

The Special Operations Forces recently received 4 such vehicles, while 2 were sent for the 1st time to the international exercise “Bright Star” currently being held in Egypt from August 31 to September 14, 2023, and in which the National Guard also participates.

The Polaris MRZR is rated by SOF’s operators as highly capable for off-road terrain and because of its versatility. The vehicle has a nearly 900 c.c engine with 90 hp output, selective 4-wheel drive, air transport capability and can accommodate 4 fully loaded Special Forces personnel.

Photo of the interior of the Polaris MRZR Special Operations Vehicle. Raymarine display with thermal camera display and secure data exchange device can be seen.

FLIR’s day and night electro-optical assembly was recently installed on the vehicle on display at the show.

FLIR’s electro-optical suite

In particular, the high-definition camera of the system on the expandable mast bears a zoom of X30 and the night (thermal) camera a zoom of X4. The system can transmit live data via a 4G antenna and is controlled from the co-driver seat.

At the rear of the vehicle there are 2 batteries which provide the necessary power for the electro-optical system alongside other electrical devices such as the Thales 9200 series radio and the satellite telephone.

Other features of the vehicle include a 5.56mm machine gun mount and mounts to support the crew’s personal armament.

Also read: POLARIS All-Terrain Vehicles | A potential choice for the Cyprus Special Forces