Exosens to invest €20 million in U.S. and Europe, launch first American night vision tube production site

The global night vision market is expanding amid higher defense budgets and the need for armed forces to strengthen night fighting capabilities. The return of high-density combat has reinforced the importance of night operations as a key tactical advantage, with NATO and Tier-1 allies increasing procurement in 2024 while remaining below targeted equipment levels.

Photonis, a brand of Exosens, produces image intensifier tubes that serve as the core component of night vision devices. These systems enhance soldiers’ situational awareness, agility, mobility, targeting and driving capabilities in low-light conditions.

As part of the investment, Exosens will build a new production plant in Sturbridge, Massachusetts, where its subsidiary Photonis Scientific Inc is already located. The company said it will leverage internal support and synergies to accelerate the site’s development, with manufacturing of image intensifier tubes expected to begin in early 2027.

The investment is designed to strengthen Exosens’ position in the United States, which accounts for 45 percent of the global night vision market and is projected to see strong growth in both commercial and defense sectors. By producing locally, the company aims to capture a larger share of what it describes as the world’s largest market.

“We are pleased to announce a new investment in our capacity on the US ground, which represents a major step in our strategy. Expansion into the US market presents a significant opportunity to strengthen our position as a global leader in image intensifier tubes. This new capacity will also enable us to meet customers’ demand for large-volume, high-performance products manufactured in the US,” said Exosens CEO Jérôme Cerisier.