AUSA 2026: IAI unveils POP 1000: New compact multi-sensor electro-optical payload for long-Rrange ISTAR missions
TEL AVIV, ISRAEL – October 9, 2026 – IAI (Israel Aerospace Industries), a world-class aerospace and defense leader, announced today the expansion of its advanced electro-optical systems portfolio with the unveiling of the POP 1000. Designed to meet demanding size, weight and power (SWaP) requirements, the 12-inch POP 1000 brings long-range EO/IR performance into a compact configuration, enabling integration across a wide range of airborne, maritime and land platforms, including applications where payload size and weight are critical. POP 1000 is being presented for the first time at the AUSA Annual Meeting & Exposition 2026 in Washington (Hall C, booth 3525).
Click on image to enlargeGuy Bar Lev, President and CEO of IAI: “The POP 1000 represents the continued evolution of IAI’s electro-optical capabilities, bringing advanced sensing and mission capabilities into a compact system that provides customers with greater operational flexibility. Building on the experience of more than thousands of POP systems deployed worldwide, we continue to adapt proven technologies to meet changing operational needs.”
This new compact, multi-sensor electro-optical payload is designed for long-range intelligence surveillance, target acquisition, reconnaissance (ISTAR) and tracking. POP 1000 combines advanced high-definition VIS (Day), Thermal Medium-Wave Infrared (MWIR), Short-Wave Infrared (SWIR) camera capabilities, with an eye-safe laser rangefinder and laser designator. The system also incorporates automatic video tracking, advanced image processing and four-axis stabilization. It can integrate AI-based capabilities to support mission execution and effectiveness, while providing a stable line of sight in dynamic operational environments. These capabilities support detection, identification, tracking and target designation across day, night and challenging visibility conditions. An integrated INS enables accurate geo-referencing, while picture-in-picture capabilities enhance situational awareness.
Click on image to enlargePOP 1000 joins IAI’s proven POP family of electro-optical systems, already used by dozens of customers worldwide, and builds on decades of operational experience and proven system architecture. POP 1000 provides clear, stable and actionable intelligence across a wide range of operational environments.
photo courtesy IAI
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Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) unveiled the POP 1000, a new compact multi-sensor electro-optical payload for long-range ISTAR missions, in Tel Aviv on October 9, 2026. The system integrates advanced camera technologies and AI capabilities, enhancing operational flexibility for military applications. It was presented for the first time at the AUSA Annual Meeting & Exposition 2026.
- IAI unveiled the POP 1000 at the AUSA Annual Meeting & Exposition 2026 in Washington.
- The POP 1000 is designed for long-range intelligence surveillance, target acquisition, reconnaissance, and tracking.
- It features advanced camera capabilities and AI-based functionalities for mission effectiveness.
- The system is compact and meets demanding size, weight, and power requirements.