Thales signs a major frame contract with Germany and strengthens its industrial foothold in the country
Thales has signed a significant frame contract with Germany, reinforcing its industrial presence in the country.
This contract involves the delivery of new-generation optronic vision systems as part of the “Infanterist der Zukunft – Erweitertes System” (IdZ-ES) modernization program for the German armed forces, led by Rheinmetall. Under this order placed in 2026, Thales will provide optronic systems in the mid-four-figure range, which include its well-established XTRAIM sighting systems, alongside new-generation night vision systems that make up the majority of the ordered units. Deliveries are set to commence in 2027, quickly ramping up to several hundred units each month.
To support this effort, Thales is investing several million euros to enhance its production and support capabilities for optronic equipment intended for vehicles and soldiers. This investment aligns with the growing demand for armed forces modernization while ensuring closer proximity to its customers.
The new-generation night vision system combines intensified and thermal imaging, developed collaboratively with the defense industry and potential users, and introduces a range of vision solutions for augmented soldiers, integrating the latest advances in augmented reality.
As the prime contractor for the IdZ-ES program, Rheinmetall has enlisted Thales for the supply of optronic systems, including the XTRAIM sighting systems and new-generation night vision systems capable of displaying augmented reality information and enhancing tactical situational awareness.
The XTRAIM is a dual-use day/night sight that merges reflex sighting with thermal imaging, allowing for rapid and accurate target engagement in all visibility conditions while lightening the soldier’s load. Over 20,000 units have been sold to armed forces globally, demonstrating its effectiveness in high-intensity combat scenarios.
Thales’ new-generation night vision systems are designed to increase soldier survivability by offering a detailed understanding of the tactical environment. These systems possess an open architecture, promoting interoperability and seamless connectivity with existing military equipment, serving as the foundation for the Optronic Soldier System. The German armed forces will be the inaugural users of this cutting-edge night vision system from Thales.
With over 35 years of experience and 120,000 units sold in 55 countries, Thales is a global leader in night vision systems. Its optronic solutions are continually refined in close coordination with operational users and are utilized by both conventional and special forces.
“Thales is honoured to contribute, alongside Rheinmetall, to the protection and operational effectiveness of German soldiers through its advanced combat-proven solutions. These systems pave the way for future modernization opportunities within the IdZ-ES programme. XTRAIM and our new night vision system will enhance day- and night-time combat capabilities, support faster decision-making, and improve the connectivity of soldier-borne systems. In the coming months, Thales is investing several million euros in Germany to strengthen its industrial footprint in the country and reinforce its proximity to the German armed forces.”Christoph Ruffner, CEO and Country Director, Thales Germany.
About Thales
Thales (Euronext Paris: HO) is a global leader in advanced technologies across the Defence, Aerospace, and Cyber & Digital sectors. Its innovative product and service portfolio addresses key challenges, including sovereignty, security, sustainability, and inclusion.
The Group allocates €4.5 billion annually in Research & Development, focusing on critical environments such as Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity, Quantum, and Cloud technologies.
Thales employs more than 85,000 individuals across 65 countries, generating sales of €22.1 billion in 2025.
For recent images of Thales and its activities in Defence, Aerospace, and Cyber & Digital sectors, please visit the Thales Media Library.
About Thales in Germany
Thales has been established in Germany for over 140 years and is recognized as one of the largest national organizations within the Thales Group, employing around 2,300 people across nine sites with dedicated production and development facilities.
As a key player in the German high-tech industry, Thales provides state-of-the-art, secure reconnaissance, radar, communication, and information systems to customers both domestically and internationally, alongside services for secure land, air, and sea transport, as well as civil and military security requirements.
Thales also develops a comprehensive array of IT solutions for cybersecurity and manufactures satellite components at its Ulm facility.
Source: Thales Group (2026-07-21 08:00:03)
