Operating Segments and Related Information Operating Segments and Related Information (Details 3) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Segment Reporting, Asset Reconciling Item [Line Items]
Segment assets (accounts receivable, net and inventories)	$ 696,076	$ 716,541
Thermal Vision and Measurement
Segment Reporting, Asset Reconciling Item [Line Items]
Segment assets (accounts receivable, net and inventories)	246,157	265,197
Raymarine
Segment Reporting, Asset Reconciling Item [Line Items]
Segment assets (accounts receivable, net and inventories)	80,404	74,980
Surveillance
Segment Reporting, Asset Reconciling Item [Line Items]
Segment assets (accounts receivable, net and inventories)	308,484	317,944
Detection
Segment Reporting, Asset Reconciling Item [Line Items]
Segment assets (accounts receivable, net and inventories)	23,059	31,861
Integrated Systems
Segment Reporting, Asset Reconciling Item [Line Items]
Segment assets (accounts receivable, net and inventories)	$ 37,972	$ 26,559