Sofradir completes acquisition, names US-based subsidiary

DECEMBER 16, 2008--Sofradir (Paris, France; www.sofradir.com), a developer and manufacturer of advanced infrared (IR) detectors for military, space, and industrial applications, has completed the acquisition of the New Jersey-based IR equipment company Electrophysics. Sofradir wholly owns Electrophysics, which has been renamed Sofradir EC (Sofradir Engineered Components).

Frank Vallese, former owner of Electrophysics, will head Sofradir EC as president. Philippe Bensussan, chairman and CEO of Sofradir and chairman of ULIS, will also serve as chairman of Sofradir EC.

Bensussan says, "Sofradir EC will help our company meet the specific needs of North American customers of cooled and uncooled IR detectors."

The estimated North American market for infrared detectors is US$1 billion (approximately EUR 770 million).

Sofradir EC will continue developing and supplying infrared equipment such as specialized thermography equipment, and night-vision modules for low-light photography and videography, focusing on scientific, industrial, public safety, security, and defense applications.