Estonian Centre for Defence Investments (ECDI) has delivered the first batch of modern night vision devices to the Estonian Defence Forces, significantly enhancing their capability to operate in the dark. The newly improved features of these devices from Theon Sensors, a Greek company, bolster soldiers’ combat effectiveness in three critical areas: they are lighter, more light-sensitive, and offer superior resolution compared to previous models, thus affording users a tactical edge. Ramil Lipp, Strategic Category Manager (Armaments) at ECDI, stated that thanks to a successful public procurement process, the night combat capabilities of the Estonian Defence Forces are set to strong improvement. The devices will equip approximately 10,000 soldiers. Theon Sensors’ products were chosen as the winners from among 16 bidders based on the specified evaluation criteria. Units of the Estonian Defence Forces and Defence League both will utilize the new night vision devices.
“Considering our enemy is known to significantly outnumber us, we must seek our advantage in other areas, such as superior training, higher situational awareness, and, of course, a technological edge. These new night vision devices represent a stride toward securing this edge, enabling us to function more effectively around the clock and even better utilize all newly acquired capabilities,” stated Lieutenant Colonel Riho Juurik, Head of the Logistics Department at the Headquarters of Estonian Defence Forces.
“To put it succinctly, the Theon Argus FS MK2 marks a significant progression in conducting operations under limited lighting. Its reduced weight and improved night vision capabilities are qualities our national defenders will certainly welcome,” remarked Staff Sergeant Mario Nõlvak, an armaments specialist from the Estonian Defence Forces Support Command’s Supply Battalion, who evaluated the new equipment.
“The bid evaluation process was comprehensive. Bids were assessed as complete sets, meaning each set of night vision device, helmet mount, and supplementary equipment had to meet the tender’s specifications. I am glad that the competition was intense and that the winning product fully satisfies the end users’ requirements. The promptness of delivery surpassed our expectations, and the desired night combat proficiency has been timely achieved,” Lipp explained.
“We are grateful to ECDI for their trust in Theon, giving us the chance to prove our capability and pride in delivering what we promised within the stipulated time frame,” said Vasileios Savvaidis, Managing Director of Theon Sensors.
ARGUS is a family of innovative, full MIL-SPEC, image intensified multi-purpose monoculars systems that can be operated as hand-held, head-helmet or weapon-mounted. Lightweight, yet of robust construction, with superior optical characteristics and performance, utilizing standard AA batteries (rechargeable, alkaline or lithium) for operation. This groundbreaking system allows the individual soldier to perform observation, short range (surveillance, weapon aiming, map reading and medical aid operations during all night conditions). Both versions (LW and FS) can be offered with or without Manual Gain Control (MGC). THEON INTERNATIONAL, is a leading developer and manufacturer of customizable night vision, thermal imaging systems and Electro-Optical ISR systems for military and security applications in Europe with a global footprint. The THEON Group was founded in 1997 and has since become one of the most relevant players in the segment with offices in Athens, Cyprus, Kempen, Arlington, Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Zug, Copenhagen and Singapore, coupled with manufacturing facilities in Athens, Wetzlar and Plymouth. THEON’s commercial presence extends to 68 countries, of which 24 belong to NATO, with almost 150.000 systems manufactured and sold as of 2023.
