Operating Segments and Related Information Operating Segments and Related Information (Details 3) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Segment Reporting, Asset Reconciling Item [Line Items]
Segment assets (accounts receivable, net and inventories)	$ 657,644	$ 716,541
Thermal Vision and Measurement
Segment Reporting, Asset Reconciling Item [Line Items]
Segment assets (accounts receivable, net and inventories)	249,972	265,197
Raymarine
Segment Reporting, Asset Reconciling Item [Line Items]
Segment assets (accounts receivable, net and inventories)	66,185	74,980
Surveillance
Segment Reporting, Asset Reconciling Item [Line Items]
Segment assets (accounts receivable, net and inventories)	283,809	317,944
Detection
Segment Reporting, Asset Reconciling Item [Line Items]
Segment assets (accounts receivable, net and inventories)	24,858	31,861
Integrated Systems
Segment Reporting, Asset Reconciling Item [Line Items]
Segment assets (accounts receivable, net and inventories)	$ 32,820	$ 26,559