Optex Systems and Bridge Semiconductor Enter Into Memorandum of Understanding to Provide New Thermal Sensing Solution

RICHARDSON, Texas, Nov. 14, 2011 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Optex Systems, Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of Optex Systems Holdings, Inc. (OTCBB:OPXS), and a leading manufacturer of optical sighting systems and assemblies for domestic and foreign military and related applications, announced today that it has entered into a memorandum of understanding with Bridge Semiconductor Corporation to collaborate on the development and sale of thermal systems for a range of military applications. This relationship is part of Optex's ongoing efforts to use its technology in a wider range of applications.

The memorandum of understanding contemplates constructing systems based upon Bridge's proprietary, high-performance, pyroelectric infrared sensors for use in uncooled cameras and imagers. Using Thin-Film Ferroelectric (TFFE) technology, these jointly developed thermal solutions are intended to provide significant performance improvements over the current industry standard microbolometers within the uncooled thermal sensing market.   

"We are listening to our defense customers with an eye toward providing improvements to life cycle technology, reliability, space savings, weight reduction and cost. To address these concerns, the new systems will seek to provide a comprehensive equipment upgrade which can be accomplished without lengthy integration effort or expense," said Danny Schoening, General Manager and Chief Operating Officer of Optex Systems Holdings, Inc.

Larry Weidman, Chief Executive Officer of Bridge Semiconductor added, "Bridge is proud to team up with Optex to introduce TFFE Pyroelectric sensing technology and its unique performance advantages, such as solar immunity, to Optex's customers. We believe Optex's outstanding manufacturing capabilities and customer reputation make it an ideal partner."

Optex and Bridge have already taken preliminary steps as part of the joint collaboration. Select on-site demonstrations are currently in process to demonstrate the cost and performance attributes to selected potential customers. 

ABOUT OPTEX SYSTEMS HOLDINGS, INC. AND OPTEX SYSTEMS, INC.

Optex Systems, Inc., which is the wholly owned subsidiary of Optex Systems Holdings, Inc. (OTCBB:OPXS), was founded in 1987 and is a Richardson, Texas based ISO 9001:2008 certified concern, which manufactures optical sighting systems and assemblies, primarily for Department of Defense (DOD) applications. Its products are installed on various types of U.S. military land vehicles, such as the Abrams and Bradley fighting vehicles, light armored and armored security vehicles, and have been selected for installation on the Stryker family of vehicles. Optex Systems, Inc. also manufactures and delivers numerous periscope configurations, rifle and surveillance sights and night vision optical assemblies. Optex Systems, Inc. delivers its products both directly to the military services and to prime contractors. For additional information, please visit the website at www.optexsys.com.

ABOUT BRIDGE SEMICONDUCTOR CORPORATION

Bridge Semiconductor Corporation designs and manufactures thermal imaging sensors and cameras based on the company's proprietary TFFE sensing technology. Bridge offers infrared focal plane arrays sensors, OEM thermal imaging modules, and security cameras for a wide range of military and commercial applications. Bridge Semiconductor Corporation was founded in 1997 and is based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

CONTACT: Optex Systems Holdings, Inc.
         Stanley A. Hirschman, President
         (972) 644-0722
         ir@optexsys.com
         1420 Presidential Drive
         Richardson, TX 75081
Source: Optex Systems Holdings, Inc.