Precision-Optical Engineering

Precision-Optical Engineering (POE) is a part of Precision Solutions, which is itself a business centre of MBDA UK. POE is a centre of excellence for optical systems, optical research & development and optical components. Supplying both the military and commercial electro-optics markets, POE offers design, development and manufacture of optical components and electro-optical (E-O) systems for use in the visible, near infrared, infrared and microwave regions of the spectrum. POE also manufactures infra-red interferometers for optical surface quality assurance applications and has been involved in a variety of project areas including a wide range of optical solutions for surveillance systems programmes, cooled and uncooled sensors, lasers, missile seekers and staring array projects.

POE has both the capabilities and wide ranging experience in the design, development & manufacture of optical systems and component manufacture in materials suitable for use in both the long and medium infrared wavebands as well as in the visible and near infrared regions. The development of systems can cover the complete process from initial studies, detailed optical and opto-mechanical design, production of optical prototypes, system testing and then on full production. Designs have included lenses for surveillance, telecentric and telemetry requirements as well as lenses with aspheric, diffractive and Fresnel profiles. Lenses can also be produced in germanium, silicon, zinc sulphide and zinc Selenide and a wide range of metal mirrors can be designed and manufactured with parabolic, off-axis and elliptical surfaces. Moreover, other components such as bearings and mould tools can also be produced.