Kathrine Frich
As technology advances, night no longer offers a tactical advantage for concealment.
As technology advances, night no longer offers a tactical advantage for concealment.
A recent breakthrough at MIT in infrared nanomaterials, capable of functioning at room temperature without bulky cooling systems, promises a leap forward in night vision for both military forces and autonomous vehicles.
But while the world awaits this next-gen gear, many modern armies already deploy some of the most advanced night vision tech ever developed.
From special forces to main battle tanks, here are the 10 most powerful and innovative night vision systems currently shaping the future of combat.
1. ENVG-B (Enhanced Night Vision Goggle-Binocular) – United States
The U.S. Army’s ENVG-B combines night vision with thermal imaging and augmented reality overlays.
It allows soldiers to “see through smoke,” identify friend or foe, and even link their weapon sights directly to the display. It’s the gold standard in tactical night ops today.
2. Thales MINIE-D – France
Used by French special forces, the MINIE-D offers lightweight, high-resolution night vision with low power consumption.
Its modular design allows it to integrate thermal overlays and switch between helmet-mounted or handheld modes.
3. GPNVG-18 – Panoramic Night Vision Goggles (USA)
Known for their distinctive quad-lens design, GPNVG-18s give operators a 97-degree field of view, almost double that of conventional goggles.
Used by U.S. Navy SEALs and Tier 1 units, they enhance spatial awareness in dark, dynamic environments.
4. Leonardo Janus – Italy
The Janus system combines infrared sensors with visible light cameras for battlefield surveillance.
Used on armored vehicles and drones, it delivers high-definition imaging in all lighting conditions—ideal for perimeter defense and mobile recon.
5. BAE Systems Broadsword Spine – United Kingdom
This wearable smart tech integrates thermal imaging into the soldier’s uniform.
The data from helmet-mounted or weapon-linked sights is relayed to an in-visor display, streamlining night engagement and reducing the need for handheld optics.
6. L3Harris Fused Weapon Sight (FWS-I) – United States
The FWS-I attaches to a weapon and transmits real-time night vision and thermal imagery directly to the ENVG-B.
This fusion enables targets to be acquired without even looking through a scope, a game-changer in urban combat.
7. Rheinmetall Saphir 3.2 – Germany
Built for armored vehicles, the Saphir 3.2 provides high-performance thermal imaging in combat conditions. It’s used by Leopard 2 tanks and offers excellent situational awareness even in smoke, fog, or nighttime operations.
8. Pulsar Merger LRF XP50 – Civilian Tech in Tactical Hands
Originally developed for hunters and search & rescue, the XP50 has found its way into tactical use thanks to its exceptional range, integrated laser rangefinder, and thermal fusion imaging.
It offers professional-grade optics in a portable format.
9. Elbit Systems XACT nv33 – Israel
Favoured by IDF infantry and now adopted by NATO allies, the XACT nv33 offers ultralight night vision with exceptional clarity and ruggedness.
It’s ideal for rapid-response forces and dismounted troops needing reliable night ops capabilities.
10. QN-202 Night Vision Rifle Scope – China
This scope offers infrared imaging and ballistic computation built into one smart optic.
Used by Chinese special forces, the QN-202 turns even standard rifles into precision night-fighting tools with integrated targeting data and video relay.