MKS Introduces Ophir® KAMU™ Long‑Range MWIR SXGA Thermal Camera Series Optimized for Surveillance and Security Missions

Andover, MA, April 29, 2026 – MKS Inc. (NASDAQ: MKSI), a global provider of enabling technologies that transform our world, announces at SPIE Defense + Security 2026 the Ophir® KAMU long‑range MWIR f/4 SXGA thermal imaging camera series, a fully integrated solution to accelerate deployment in such applications as surveillance and Counter-Unmanned Aircraft Systems (C-UAS).

Each camera combines MKS’ best‑in‑class continuous‑zoom MWIR f/4 optics with a high‑resolution SXGA cooled detector (1280×1024 pixels, 10 µm), advanced video-processing, and an integration‑ready architecture to accelerate deployment while delivering long‑range, high‑performance imaging. The Ophir KAMU camera series spans focal‑lengths from 300 mm to 1200 mm, supporting such applications as extended long‑range surveillance and extreme stand‑off detection.

Built on MKS’ latest high-resolution continuous‑zoom MWIR f/4 SXGA lens, the Ophir KAMU camera system delivers unmatched clarity, low distortion, and stable line-of-sight (LOS) performance, maintaining a constant f/4 at 0.6° (NFOV) to 47.8° (WFOV). It maintains precise boresight and image focus across the zoom range, enabling earlier threat detection and wider coverage with fewer assets. In the 1200 mm configuration, standard military vehicle target sizes can be detected at ~28 km, while micro drones (20×20 cm) can be identified at ≥1.7 km.

“In long‑range thermal imaging, optics determine outcomes,” said Dr. Kobi Lasri, General Manager, Ophir Optics Products. “The Ophir KAMU MWIR camera places MKS’ continuous‑zoom optics at the center—paired with SXGA resolution and an integration‑ready architecture—to deliver consistent thermal performance, near‑diffraction‑limited imaging, and reliable long‑range discrimination across airborne, maritime, and ground ISR.”

The Ophir KAMU camera system integrates a proven video‑processing pipeline with non‑uniformity correction (NUC), bad‑pixel repair, and advanced enhancements including denoise, and adaptive gain control. Digital outputs include H.264/H.265 over Ethernet, HD‑SDI and HDMI, with optional Camera Link^®. Command‑and‑control is provided via Ethernet and RS‑422 interfaces for streamlined integration and operation.

The Ophir KAMU camera system is available in open-frame and MIL-STD-810 qualified configurations. For harsh environments, the camera features an enclosed rear panel with EMI‑protected D38999 connectors and an IP67‑sealed front element. It is nitrogen‑backfilled for fog‑free operation and offers multiple front‑element coating options for extended durability. A constant‑aperture design ensures stable thermal performance across the zoom range, while factory boresight and narcissism calibration improve accuracy and reduce maintenance.

The lens‑centric design approach, built on decades of high‑end optical design and high-volume manufacturing, ensures control over the key performance driver of a thermal camera, the optics. This enables faster integration, reduced engineering risk, and consistent, field‑proven performance for ISR and security OEMs.

Availability

The Ophir MWIR f/4 camera series is available now. OEM pricing is available on request.

MKS Inc.

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