27 August 2025

Teledyne FLIR OEM, part of Teledyne Technologies Incorporated and the global leader in enabling thermal imaging innovation, today announced ACSL, Japan’s leading drone manufacturer, as the newest collaborator in the Thermal by FLIR program. This initiative supports the integration of Teledyne FLIR OEM thermal camera modules and provides go-to-market support for the resulting cutting-edge products. 

ACSL’s SAMO thermal payload features the NDAA-compliant and International Traffic in Arms (ITAR)-free Hadron 640R dual thermal-visible camera module, which combines a 64MP visible camera with the 640x512 Boson^®radiometric thermal camera module. As part of the collaboration, SAMO will also incorporate FLIR’s patented MSX Multi-Spectral Dynamic Imaging technology, which embosses visual data to deliver enhanced, detail-rich thermal imagery in real time. 

“Collaborating with Teledyne FLIR OEM is a natural and significant step for ACSL,” said Cynthia Huang, CEO of ACSL Inc. “As the U.S. drone landscape evolves, our commitment remains focused on delivering field-ready UAS solutions. The SAMO payload brings advanced, proven imaging capabilities to drone operators nationwide. Paired with our new TAITEN smart controller and upgraded SOTEN platform, operators will be empowered to work smarter, faster, and with greater confidence.” 

ACSL’s flagship SOTEN drone is purpose-built for public safety, disaster response, inspection, and surveying applications. Designed and manufactured in Japan, SOTEN is a foldable, NDAA-compliant drone that meets stringent security and performance standards, including ISO15408 certification. Engineered for demanding missions, it features an IP43 weather-resistant design, a 25-minute flight time, and a one-touch swappable payload system for rapid imaging transitions. Lightweight and intuitive to operate, the SOTEN delivers secure and efficient aerial capabilities—even in the most challenging environments. 

“With growing concerns around drone security, ACSL offers a robust NDAA-compliant solution with versatile payload options tailored to mission needs,” said Mike Walters, vice president, product development, Teledyne FLIR OEM. “ACSL’s rapid innovation is impressive, and we’re excited to continue ongoing collaboration on next-generation drone payloads featuring our latest thermal camera modules and Prism ISP features.” 

To learn more about ACSL’s SOTEN drone and SAMO payload, visit the ACSL www.acsl-usa.com/product. See the SOTEN drone and SAMO payload in person at ACSL’s booth #917 during the Commercial UAV Expo, September 2–4, 2025, in Las Vegas, Nevada. 

About Teledyne FLIR OEM  

Teledyne FLIR OEM, a Teledyne Technologies company, is the world’s largest volume manufacturer of ITAR-free and NDAA-compliant infrared (IR) sensor and camera modules. As a vertically integrated supplier, Teledyne FLIR OEM delivers thousands of thermal imaging modules and related software tools daily for defense, automotive, uncrewed, professional, and artificial intelligence applications designed to improve decision support and situational awareness. Teledyne FLIR OEM enables life-changing thermal sensing so the world can do and see more.

About ACSL 

ACSL is the largest Japanese drone maker, renowned for its innovation and commitment to quality. With a focus on delivering advanced, reliable, and user-friendly drone solutions, ACSL continues to set industry standards and exceed customer expectations. ACSL offers a variety of different drone systems, including the flagship SOTEN drone. ACSL Inc. is the U.S. subsidiary of ACSL.