Flir Cameras: Where Are They Manufactured?

FLIR Systems, now known as Teledyne FLIR, is a global leader in the design, manufacturing, and marketing of infrared cameras for professional and recreational use. The company was founded in 1978 to develop high-performance, low-cost thermal imaging systems for airborne applications. FLIR cameras are used in various sectors, including commercial, industrial, and government markets, with a focus on surveillance, reconnaissance, border patrol, and critical infrastructure protection. With offices and manufacturing facilities worldwide, where are FLIR cameras made?

FLIR Systems is now Teledyne FLIR LLC

FLIR Systems Inc., now Teledyne FLIR LLC, is a company specialising in the design and production of thermal imaging cameras and sensors. The company was founded in 1978 to develop high-performance, low-cost infrared (thermal) imaging systems for airborne applications.

In the late 1980s, FLIR Systems began to leverage its expertise in infrared imaging to create hand-held and laboratory systems for a range of commercial applications. This shift in focus was accelerated by the acquisition of the industrial infrared imaging group from Hughes Aircraft Co. in 1990. The company continued to expand its capabilities and market presence through a series of strategic acquisitions, including Agema Infrared Systems AB in 1997 and Inframetrics, Inc. in 1999.

In 2004, FLIR Systems acquired Indigo Systems, a leading developer and supplier of infrared imaging products, further strengthening their position in the market. The company has continued to invest in adjacent markets, technologies, and products, expanding their sensor solutions and customer base globally.

In 2021, FLIR Systems was acquired by Teledyne Technologies for $8 billion and was rebranded as Teledyne FLIR. The company now operates in multiple locations worldwide, employing over 3,000 people. Teledyne FLIR continues to be a global leader in thermal imaging and infrared camera technology, serving a diverse range of customers in commercial, industrial, and government sectors.

Cameras are made in the USA

Another company that manufactures cameras in the USA is AV Costar®, which designs and produces megapixel network surveillance cameras. Based in Glendale, California, AV Costar takes pride in its "Made in America" status, with most of its products designed and manufactured in the United States.

In addition to camera manufacturers, there are numerous American companies producing camera gear and accessories. These include:

• RED Digital Cinema, which manufactures high-end professional cameras in the USA.
• Copper River Bags, which crafts leather camera bags, satchels, and other leather goods.
• OP/TECH USA, offering affordable and high-quality camera cases, lens pouches, and camera slings.
• Pelican, known for their waterproof and crush-proof camera cases.
• Portabrace, hand-crafting camera cases in Vermont since 1972.
• Capturing Couture, creating fashionable bohemian camera straps and bags.
• Couch Guitar Straps, making stylish and affordable camera straps in Los Angeles.
• Domke, providing stylish and affordable camera straps and bags.
• DSPTCH, a newcomer offering camera bags and straps.
• Gordy's Camera Straps, with customizable and affordable leather camera straps.
• HoldFast Gear, popular among wedding photographers for their luxurious camera harnesses and bags.
• Really Right Stuff (RSS), a Utah-based company producing professional camera tripods, ball heads, and brackets.
• Tiffen, offering a range of lens filters for various applications.
• Chimera, Lumiquest, and several other companies contributing to the vibrant ecosystem of camera accessories made in the USA.

So, while camera technology and manufacturing have become global endeavours, there is still a significant presence of companies in the USA that are designing, crafting, and innovating in the world of cameras and photography gear.

The company was founded in 1978

FLIR Systems, formerly known as FLIR Systems Inc., was founded in 1978 to develop high-performance, low-cost infrared (thermal) imaging systems for airborne applications. The company was originally based in Tigard, Oregon, and has since become a global leader in the design, production, and marketing of thermal imaging cameras and sensors.

Infrared cameras have a wide range of applications, from surveillance and reconnaissance to critical infrastructure protection and airborne law enforcement. FLIR's main customers are governments, and its products are used in both commercial and industrial settings. For example, in industrial settings, FLIR's products can be used to detect heat loss, which can indicate impending equipment failure.

FLIR has a strong presence in the airborne imaging systems market, providing technology to television and radio broadcast stations, as well as law enforcement agencies. The company's thermal imaging systems can be installed on vehicles, enabling energy audits of residential areas and the identification of abnormal heat leakage.

FLIR's founding in 1978 marked the beginning of its journey towards becoming a pioneer in infrared technology. The company has since expanded its capabilities and market reach through acquisitions and innovations, solidifying its position as a leader in the thermal imaging industry.

FLIR Systems Estonia is the most successful company in Estonia's electronics industry

FLIR Systems, now known as Teledyne FLIR LLC, is a global leader in the design, manufacture and marketing of thermal imaging infrared cameras. The company was founded in 1978 to develop high-performance, low-cost infrared (thermal) imaging systems for airborne applications. FLIR Systems has offices, manufacturing, and/or research and development facilities in various locations around the world, including Tallinn, Estonia.

FLIR Systems Estonia OU, established in 2007, is a subsidiary of FLIR Systems Holding AB and is based in Tallinn, Estonia. With a projected revenue per employee of €730,242 in 2024, a total of 158 employees, and a projected turnover of €115,378,281, FLIR Systems Estonia is a significant player in Estonia's electronics industry. The company's main activities include the manufacture of instruments and appliances for measuring, testing, and navigation, as well as the production of optical equipment.

FLIR Systems Estonia's success can be attributed to its focus on innovative technologies and its commitment to creating a more sustainable, efficient, and safer future. By leveraging its expertise in infrared imaging, FLIR Systems has developed a diverse range of products, including thermal imaging cameras, handheld devices, and laboratory systems. These products have a wide range of applications, from surveillance and reconnaissance to condition monitoring and early fire detection.

The company's investments in adjacent markets, technologies, and products have enabled significant growth and expanded its customer base globally. FLIR Systems Estonia's contribution to Estonia's electronics industry is evident through its technological advancements, financial performance, and dedication to enhancing human perception through intelligent imaging and sensing solutions.

FLIR's main customers are governments

FLIR Systems Inc., now Teledyne FLIR LLC, is a global leader in the design, development, and manufacturing of thermal imaging cameras and sensors. The company's products are used in a variety of sectors, including automotive, government and defence, industrial, marine, and public safety. FLIR's main customers are governments, with 31% of its revenues in 2020 coming from the federal government of the United States and its agencies.

FLIR's products are designed for a range of applications, including surveillance and reconnaissance, border and maritime patrol, critical infrastructure protection, and airborne law enforcement. The company has a strong presence in the government and defence sector, providing advanced technology for military and security applications. FLIR's thermal imaging cameras, for instance, are used by the military for surveillance and reconnaissance, as well as by law enforcement agencies for border patrol and critical infrastructure protection.

In addition to its work with governments, FLIR also serves the automotive industry, providing imaging technology for BMW vehicles since 2005. FLIR has also partnered with companies like Blackview, integrating its thermal imaging technology into rugged smartphones. FLIR's cameras have also been used in the Wildlife Crime Technology Project, an initiative supported by a grant from Google, to prevent poaching in several African countries.

The company has a diverse portfolio of products, including thermal imaging cameras, night vision cameras, and infrared cameras, which are used for threat detection, condition monitoring, fire prevention, and traffic management. FLIR's technology enhances perception and awareness, providing valuable data and insights across various sectors. The company strives to create sustainable, efficient, and safer solutions, contributing to the development of intelligent communities.

With its innovative sensing solutions, FLIR plays a crucial role in strengthening public safety and well-being, increasing energy and time efficiency, and supporting first responders and military personnel in their life-saving missions. The company's products and technologies are designed to address specific needs in various sectors, making FLIR a trusted partner in government and defence applications.

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