Thales to Supply XTRAIM and New Night Vision Systems for German Armed Forces Modernisation

Since 2024, around 20,000 XTRAIMs have been sold, enabling rapid, accurate target engagement in all visibility conditions for major armies worldwide. ©Ludovic BORDE Blue Production

(IN BRIEF) Thales has signed a major frame contract in Germany to supply new-generation optronic vision systems for the German armed forces’ IdZ-ES soldier modernisation programme, led by Rheinmetall. The 2026 order covers optronic systems in the mid-four-figure range, including XTRAIM day/night sighting systems and a new-generation night vision system that combines intensified and thermal imaging. The new system, which can display augmented reality information, will be fielded first by the German armed forces. Thales will begin deliveries in 2027 and plans to ramp up production to several hundred units per month. The company is also investing several million euros in Germany to expand production and support capabilities for soldier and vehicle optronics.

(PRESS RELEASE) LA DÉFENSE, 22-Jul-2026 — /EuropaWire/ — Thales has signed a major frame contract in Germany covering the delivery of new-generation optronic vision systems for the German armed forces’ Infanterist der Zukunft – Erweitertes System modernisation programme.

The programme, known as IdZ-ES, is led by Rheinmetall, which is acting as prime contractor.

Under the 2026 order, Rheinmetall has commissioned Thales to supply optronic systems in the mid-four-figure range. The order includes Thales’ combat-proven XTRAIM sighting systems as well as new-generation night vision systems, which represent the majority of the planned deliveries.

First deliveries are scheduled to begin in 2027, followed by a rapid production ramp-up intended to reach several hundred units per month.

Thales is also investing several million euros in Germany to expand production and support capabilities for optronic equipment designed for soldiers and vehicles. The investment is intended to address growing demand for larger-scale military equipment production while bringing support closer to German customers.

The new-generation night vision system combines intensified imaging and thermal imaging. Developed alongside defence industry partners and potential users, the system marks the launch of a new range of vision solutions for the augmented soldier.

The system is designed to integrate the latest advances in augmented reality, giving soldiers enhanced tactical situational awareness.

Thales said the new night vision technology can display augmented reality information and improve battlefield understanding, while supporting better connectivity between soldier-borne systems.

XTRAIM is a day/night sighting system that combines reflex sighting and thermal imaging. It enables rapid and accurate target engagement in all visibility conditions while reducing the equipment burden carried by soldiers.

Designed for high-intensity combat requirements, XTRAIM has seen strong international demand. Since 2024, around 20,000 units have been sold to armed forces worldwide.

The new night vision system builds on the success of Thales’ NightRise family of night vision binoculars. It is designed to improve soldier survivability by providing a clearer and more comprehensive understanding of the tactical environment.

Its open architecture supports interoperability and seamless connectivity with military equipment already in service. Thales said this makes the system a central element of the Optronic Soldier System.

The German armed forces will be the first customer to field Thales’ new-generation night vision system.

With more than 35 years of experience in night vision systems and 120,000 units sold in 55 countries, Thales said it is a global leader and pioneer in the field.

The Group develops its optronic solutions in close cooperation with operational users, and its technologies are deployed by conventional and special forces.

Christoph Ruffner, CEO and Country Director of Thales Germany, said Thales is honoured to support Rheinmetall and the German armed forces through advanced and combat-proven solutions.

He said XTRAIM and the new night vision system will improve day and night combat capabilities, support faster decision-making and enhance the connectivity of soldier-borne systems.

Ruffner added that Thales’ planned investment in Germany will strengthen the company’s industrial footprint in the country and reinforce its proximity to the German armed forces.

The contract strengthens Thales’ role in Germany’s defence modernisation efforts and positions the Group for future opportunities within the IdZ-ES programme.

About Thales

Thales (Euronext Paris: HO) is a global leader in advanced technologies for the Defence, Aerospace, and Cyber & Digital sectors. Its portfolio of innovative products and services helps address several major challenges: sovereignty, security, sustainability and inclusion.

The Group allocates €4.5 billion per year in Research & Development in key areas, particularly for critical environments, such as Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity, Quantum and Cloud technologies.

Thales has more than 85,000 employees in 65 countries. In 2025, the Group generated sales of €22.1 billion.

About Thales in Germany

Based in Germany for over 140 years, Thales in Germany is one of the largest national organisations of the Thales Group, employing around 2,300 people at a total of nine sites with their own production and development facilities.

As a recognised part of the German high-tech industry, Thales in Germany offers its customers at home and abroad state-of-the-art, highly secure and available reconnaissance, radar, communication and information systems as well as services for secure land, air and sea transport and for civil and military security and protection requirements. The company also has a comprehensive portfolio of IT solutions for cybersecurity and manufactures and develops satellite components at its Ulm site.

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SOURCE: Thales