BOSTON – Senators John Kerry and Edward Kennedy today announced that FLIR systems of North Billerica, MA will receive $47,612,315 from the Department of the Navy. The funding will be used to develop hand held long range imagers. The HHI-LR/Thermal Imager system is used for long range viewing and detection of targets.

“Our armed forces need the best possible equipment, and Massachusetts leads the nation in military innovation,” said Senator Kerry. “Winning a competitively rewarded contract reminds everyone that Massachusetts can compete and win when it comes to developing the best, safest and most efficient technology for our troops.”

“This competitive navy contract for FLIR Systems ensures that Massachusetts will stay at the forefront of target detection technology and demonstrates the Commonwealth’s continued commitment to the safety of our men and women in uniform,” said Senator Kennedy.

The work is expected to be completed by September 2012.