Operating Segments and Related Information (Details 3) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Segment Reporting, Asset Reconciling Item [Line Items]
Segment assets (accounts receivable, net and inventories)	$ 631,292	$ 714,243
Thermal Vision and Measurement | Continuing Operations
Segment Reporting, Asset Reconciling Item [Line Items]
Segment assets (accounts receivable, net and inventories)	261,204	265,132
Raymarine | Continuing Operations
Segment Reporting, Asset Reconciling Item [Line Items]
Segment assets (accounts receivable, net and inventories)	63,628	73,564
Surveillance | Continuing Operations
Segment Reporting, Asset Reconciling Item [Line Items]
Segment assets (accounts receivable, net and inventories)	262,759	317,944
Detection | Continuing Operations
Segment Reporting, Asset Reconciling Item [Line Items]
Segment assets (accounts receivable, net and inventories)	21,754	31,861
Integrated Systems | Continuing Operations
Segment Reporting, Asset Reconciling Item [Line Items]
Segment assets (accounts receivable, net and inventories)	$ 21,947	$ 25,742