Sofradir chief executive sees consolidation ahead

French infrared (IR) equipment manufacturer Sofradir is prepared for consolidation in its sector, but chief executive Philippe Bensussan sees greater diversification towards commercial work as an interim measure during a challenging period for military markets.

"We are prepared for consolidation," Bensussan told IHS Jane's on 18 February. "It will happen one day. History is going that way."

Military applications have been the basis of Sofradir's activity since it was founded in 1986. IR detectors from Sofradir are deployed in thermal imaging cameras, forward-looking infrared (FLIR) systems, missile seekers, and other surveillance, targeting and homing IR equipment.

Sofradir's IR detectors are also used in a wide-range of satellite and scientific applications. These include spectrometers and earth observation systems, such as hyperspectral imagers, for earth mapping, environment and disaster monitoring, and planet exploration. The company recently signed its first space contract with the Indian space agency.

Bensussan has previously said that the European IR sector must consolidate in order to repel increasing competition from US companies, as US defence spending shrinks and those companies begin to focus on opportunities abroad.