Exosens, a French defense technology firm, has landed its largest drone imaging contract to date, agreeing to supply thousands of ultra-compact thermal camera cores to a European autonomous air defense developer. These imaging systems will be integrated into interceptor drones used for counter-drone operations, providing real-time capabilities for target detection, tracking, and engagement.
The company emphasized that the order highlights the growing significance of embedded digital imaging technologies in modern warfare, as sensors become increasingly integrated into platforms operating across air, land, and maritime environments. This trend is being driven by the expansion of drone and counter-drone ecosystems, where onboard imaging enables faster decision-making, enhanced autonomy, and reduced reliance on external systems.
Exosens further pointed to rising demand for technologies that can be integrated at early design stages and deployed rapidly, in line with accelerated development and procurement cycles.
Alongside its drone imaging business, the company is expanding its presence in the European night vision sector. In December 2025, Exosens was chosen to deliver more than 200,000 image intensifier tubes for night vision goggles under a German-led procurement initiative. These will be incorporated into 16mm systems within a program managed by a consortium involving Theon Sensors and Hensoldt.
The contract, awarded via the Organisation for Joint Armament Co-operation, is valued at about €1 billion ($1.17 billion), covering roughly 100,000 night vision goggles for Germany and 4,000 for Belgium. Earlier that year, Exosens also secured a deal to provide 17,000 monocular night vision devices to the Spanish Army, contributing to a major modernization program.
