Bertin Instruments

No nation can be too cautious when it comes to protecting its citizens from unforeseen attacks, and it is mission critical that they cover all grounds especially for chemical, biological, radioactive or nuclear (CBRN) attacks. Aiding nations and law enforcement agencies breathe a sigh of relief, Bertin Instruments, a key player in the defense and security sector is one of the only companies in France to offer proprietary systems for all types of CBRN threats. The company also develops optronics based surveillance systems for military recognition and monitoring of core areas.

With two-thirds of its workforce made up of experienced instrumentation engineers, and high-level managers, Bertin Instruments along with its partner companies develops and delivers detection systems that can thwart the plans of a client’s adversaries. Bertin Instruments’ Second Sight MS is a gas detection system that harnesses the power of band III infrared to find any chemical or toxic gas clouds that is invisible to the naked eye.

Small and light on the shoulders, the system is best suited for use in small military and civil operations. A favorite of armed forces, law enforcement agencies and first responders, Second Sight offers users the largest field of view, and can be used both during the day and night. The built-in database of known gases enables users to quickly find the air contaminators, and take precautionary measures to remove the problem.

In addition, the unique gas X feature also detects gases that are not listed in case of the material causing impurities to the surroundings. For mobile units, the system can be custom mounted on CBRN reconnaissance vehicles and empower users to provide 24/7 surveillance if required.

As terrorism plays an active part in smuggling radioactive and nuclear materials across borders, Bertin Instruments also provides gamma radiation measuring tools that meet specific homeland security and emergency preparedness needs. For teams on the ground, the solution provides a means of quickly assessing possible radiological incidents, and the affect it has on people and environment rapidly. The Radiation Portal monitors ensure that smugglers trying to carry small amounts of possible radioactive materials are caught before the chance for mass contamination of a region.

For biological airborne pathogen detection, Bertin working alongside its sister concern—Coriolis—has designed RECON. With capability to collect major leakages of aerosols in the breathable range of .5 to 10 μm, the system coverts biological agents and particles into liquid format, and deploy rapid identification techniques such as immunoassay or PCR. The timely action allows responders to receive early warnings of any aerosolized biological warfare agents present in the air and prepare a plan for civilian evacuation until the affected area is deemed clean for living again.

Another innovation from Bertin Instruments is the FusionSight, digital night vision device built by its optronics division. Designed specifically for infantry chiefs and special forces requirements, the device enhances the detection of possible foes both in day and night scenarios. Based on colour low light and thermal cameras, the handheld device is also used in search and rescue missions to find persons and casualties that are hidden under foliage or unreachable spaces. Other innovations include a dedicated thermal night vision device—PeriSight—and video analytics software—VigiSight.

With over 60 years of experience, and a physical presence in 50 countries, Bertin Instruments has an extended portfolio of 40 instruments and systems. Committed to providing topline sampling and measurement equipment and software, Bertin invest heavily in its research and development to produce tailor made and turnkey CBRN and optronics systems that meet the demands of environmental and industrial needs.