DSEI Japan 2019: Excelitas Technologies showcases Merlin-LR 2 weapon-mounted night sight

Excelitas Technologies showcased the newest addition to its Merlin family of weapon-mounted night sights at the 18-20 November DSEI Japan 2019 defence exhibition in Chiba.

Called Merlin-LR 2, the new sight is described by the company as an image-intensifying weapon sight designed to be compatible with variable magnification day scopes for medium- to longer-range surveillance and target engagement.

The sight attaches to Picatinny-style rails in front of the day sight via a locking quick release throw lever, and can operate without the need to remove or re-zero the day sight. The sight is suitable for a variety of weapon systems such as self-loading automatic rifles, designated marksman rifles and single-action sniper rifles up to and including 12.7 mm.

A company official told Jane’s that the new sight, which is intended to replace the current Merlin-LR, is not only about 40% lighter but also 20% smaller than its predecessor, and offers a better performance. For instance, it has better detection, recognition and identification capabilities and can be fitted onto an increased number of weapons such as designated marksman rifles.

The sight weighs less than 1 kg, is powered by a single AA battery, which simplifies logistics support, and benefits from a large aperture objective design, which maximises light-gathering capabilities for low-light operations.

The company official pointed out that the sight has successfully completed qualification trials and is currently being evaluated by end-users. The company is set to start series production of the sight in 2020.