IAI Launches POP 1000 Compact Electro-Optical Payload for Maritime and Airborne ISTAR

13 October 2026
Edited By: Haley McQueen

IAI (Israel Aerospace Industries), a world-class aerospace and defense leader, has announced the expansion of its advanced electro-optical systems portfolio with the unveiling of the POP 1000. Designed to meet demanding size, weight, and power (SWaP) requirements, the 12-inch POP 1000 brings long-range EO/IR performance into a compact configuration, enabling integration across a wide range of airborne, maritime, and land platforms, including applications where payload size and weight are critical. POP 1000 is being presented for the first time at the AUSA Annual Meeting & Exposition 2026 in Washington (Hall C, booth 3525).

POP 1000. (Image credit: IAI)

Guy Bar Lev, President and CEO of IAI: “The POP 1000 represents the continued evolution of IAI’s electro-optical capabilities, bringing advanced sensing and mission capabilities into a compact system that provides customers with greater operational flexibility. Building on the experience of more than thousands of POP systems deployed worldwide, we continue to adapt proven technologies to meet changing operational needs.”

This new compact, multi-sensor electro-optical payload is designed for long-range intelligence surveillance, target acquisition, reconnaissance (ISTAR), and tracking. POP 1000 combines advanced high-definition VIS (Day), Thermal Medium-Wave Infrared (MWIR), Short-Wave Infrared (SWIR) camera capabilities, with an eye-safe laser rangefinder and laser designator. The system also incorporates automatic video tracking, advanced image processing, and four-axis stabilization. It can integrate AI-based capabilities to support mission execution and effectiveness, while providing a stable line of sight in dynamic operational environments. These capabilities support detection, identification, tracking, and target designation across day, night, and challenging visibility conditions. An integrated INS enables accurate geo-referencing, while picture-in-picture capabilities enhance situational awareness.

POP 1000 joins IAI’s proven POP family of electro-optical systems, already used by dozens of customers worldwide, and builds on decades of operational experience and proven system architecture. POP 1000 provides clear, stable, and actionable intelligence across a wide range of operational environments.