Teledyne FLIR OEM and ACSL advance thermal imaging drone technology
Iain Hoey
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Teledyne FLIR OEM confirms collaboration with ACSL
Teledyne FLIR OEM has announced that ACSL will join its Thermal by FLIR programme to integrate its thermal imaging modules into new drone payloads.
According to Teledyne FLIR OEM, the partnership will see ACSL, a Japanese drone manufacturer, develop payloads using its Hadron 640R dual camera system and related imaging technologies.
The initiative is aimed at providing enhanced imaging capabilities for public safety, disaster response, and inspection applications in the United States.
Teledyne FLIR OEM explained that the programme supports original equipment manufacturers in adopting thermal modules and taking new imaging products to market.
It added that the collaboration with ACSL reflects growing demand for NDAA-compliant, security-focused drone systems.
ACSL integrates Hadron 640R into SAMO payload
ACSL said the collaboration includes its SAMO thermal payload, which combines a 64MP visible camera with the Hadron 640R thermal module.
The payload will also incorporate FLIR’s patented Multi-Spectral Dynamic Imaging technology, known as MSX, which overlays visible details onto thermal imagery for greater clarity.
The company reported that the SAMO system is designed to provide real-time imaging for operators in the field.
Cynthia Huang, CEO of ACSL Inc, said: “Collaborating with Teledyne FLIR OEM is a natural and significant step for ACSL.
“As the U.S. drone landscape evolves, our commitment remains focused on delivering field-ready UAS solutions.
“The SAMO payload brings advanced, proven imaging capabilities to drone operators nationwide.
“Paired with our new TAITEN smart controller and upgraded SOTEN platform, operators will be empowered to work smarter, faster, and with greater confidence.”
SOTEN drone features and intended use
ACSL explained that its SOTEN drone is intended for public safety, disaster response, surveying, and inspection.
It said the drone is foldable, lightweight, and manufactured in Japan to ISO15408 standards.
The system includes a weather-resistant IP43 rating, a flight time of 25 minutes, and a swappable payload feature for faster field use.
The organisation added that the platform has been designed to meet compliance requirements under the U.S. National Defense Authorization Act.
It confirmed that the payload integration is expected to expand the range of missions that the SOTEN can support.
Teledyne FLIR OEM perspective on collaboration
Mike Walters, vice president of product development at Teledyne FLIR OEM, said: “With growing concerns around drone security, ACSL offers a robust NDAA-compliant solution with versatile payload options tailored to mission needs.
“ACSL’s rapid innovation is impressive, and we’re excited to continue ongoing collaboration on next-generation drone payloads featuring our latest thermal camera modules and Prism ISP features.”
The company indicated that ongoing joint development will address evolving drone market requirements.
It added that the Thermal by FLIR programme is structured to help manufacturers combine imaging modules with broader system-level features.
Thermal by FLIR programme explained
Teledyne FLIR OEM reported that the Thermal by FLIR programme provides technical integration support and joint marketing opportunities for participating drone manufacturers.
The programme offers access to the company’s latest thermal camera modules and related imaging software tools.
It said the aim is to accelerate the deployment of thermal imaging technologies across multiple sectors, from public safety to industrial inspection.
The group added that ACSL is among the newest participants in the programme, joining other developers seeking to expand their drone capabilities.
Commercial UAV Expo showcase in Las Vegas
Teledyne FLIR OEM said that ACSL will present the SOTEN drone and SAMO payload at the Commercial UAV Expo in Las Vegas from 2 to 4 September 2025.
It noted that ACSL will exhibit at booth number 917 during the event.
The company added that the showcase will allow attendees to view the integrated systems and discuss their potential applications.
Relevance for fire and safety professionals
Thermal imaging drones are increasingly being adopted by fire services for search and rescue, situational awareness, and fireground management.
The collaboration between Teledyne FLIR OEM and ACSL introduces another platform designed to meet regulatory requirements in the United States.
Fire and safety professionals may find value in the payload’s real-time imaging, which can support decision-making in emergency operations.
The system’s compliance and integration with secure drone platforms may also address security concerns in public sector procurement.
Teledyne FLIR OEM and ACSL advance thermal imaging drone technology: Summary
Teledyne FLIR OEM announced that ACSL has joined its Thermal by FLIR programme.
The collaboration involves ACSL’s SAMO payload with the Hadron 640R dual thermal-visible camera module.
The payload also integrates FLIR’s Multi-Spectral Dynamic Imaging technology.
ACSL’s CEO Cynthia Huang said the partnership enhances UAS solutions for U.S. drone operators.
ACSL’s SOTEN drone is designed for public safety, disaster response, surveying, and inspection.
The drone is foldable, ISO15408 certified, NDAA compliant, IP43 weather resistant, and has a 25-minute flight time.
Teledyne FLIR OEM vice president Mike Walters said the collaboration addresses drone security needs.
The Thermal by FLIR programme provides OEM support and market access for thermal imaging products.
ACSL will showcase the SOTEN drone and SAMO payload at the Commercial UAV Expo in Las Vegas.