Thales has delivered the first batch of 300 Bi-NYX night vision goggles to the French Army. This delivery comes under a contract with the French defense procurement agency (Direction générale de l’armement, DGA), initially signed in 2020. The order is part of a larger procurement of 2,000 units, with the remaining 1,700 goggles set for delivery by the end of 2024. The Bi-NYX night vision goggles are designed primarily for vehicle operators, enhancing their nighttime and low-visibility capabilities. These advanced goggles will work alongside the 12,960 O-NYX binocular night vision systems currently deployed by French Army ground forces, which are used for dismounted soldiers. The introduction of Bi-NYX into the army’s inventory represents a leap in optical and light-intensification technology.
“Today we are delighted to be making the first official delivery of our Bi-NYX night vision goggles ordered for the French Army. Once again, we thank the French Army and the French defence procurement agency for their confidence in the night vision systems designed and manufactured by Thales with the support of our partners. We are firmly convinced of the operational benefits of Bi-NYX goggles in night combat situations.” said Benoit Plantier, Vice President, Optronics, Missile Electronics and Unmanned Air Systems, Thales.
The Bi-NYX binocular goggles are based on the Nellie solution, first unveiled by Thales in June 2020. These night vision goggles integrate the latest advancements in stereoscopic vision, delivering a high-resolution, wide 47° field of view in an ultra-lightweight design weighing less than 460 grams. This makes them particularly suited for troops operating in difficult terrain or during vehicle operations at night. Compared to the O-NYX system, which features a monocular design (two eyepieces with one lens), the Bi-NYX offers true stereoscopic vision, essential for depth perception and situational awareness. These features are especially beneficial for specialist frontline units and vehicle drivers who require accurate distance judgment in challenging environments.
The Bi-NYX project has been self-funded by Thales, with development and production taking place at the company’s Saint-Héand facility. Thales has ramped up its manufacturing capacity to meet the needs of the French Army, capable of producing over 250 units per month. This high-rate production ensures timely fulfillment of the French military’s orders and underscores Thales’ ability to deliver cutting-edge technology on a large scale. This latest delivery signals Thales’ commitment to supporting the French Armed Forces with innovative solutions, reinforcing the operational capabilities of its vehicle drivers and specialist units. The Bi-NYX will play a critical role in improving night-time operational efficiency, ensuring that French forces remain agile and effective across various combat environments.
