PARSIPPANY, N.J., Feb. 4 -- DRS Technologies Inc. announced it has received a new contract to provide upgrade kits for Canadian Forces' AN/TAS-502 night observation device, long range (NODLR). The kits, comprised of third-generation focal plane arrays and associated electronic components, are expected to double the range of current systems and dramatically improve their operation with increased reliability and noise reduction, said DRS. The $14.6 million order was awarded to DRS by the Aerospace, Marine and Electronics Systems Sector of Public Works and Government Services Canada, the main procurement agency of the Canadian Department of National Defence, in Hull, Quebec. Work for this contract will be accomplished by the company's DRS Flight Safety and Communications unit in Kanata, Ontario. Product deliveries are expected to continue through 2007. The NODLR is a field-proven system for day/night ground surveillance operations. The infrared system detects minute differences in temperature, creating TV-like images that distinguish targets in adverse weather or battlefield conditions. DRS's thermal observation device is a self-contained system that can interface with laser range finders and operate for eight hours on a battery pack. A remote configuration currently is in service for surveillance of borders, coastlines and high-value assets.