HENSOLDT develops advanced optical detection system for Bundeswehr

The design phase is already underway following a successful concept review in December 2024. The contract, valued at €17.6 million, will run until the end of 2026, when the technology demonstrator will reach Technology Readiness Level 6 (TRL6).

ODAEON will provide real-time detection, reporting, and display of enemy optical reconnaissance systems, such as drones and target acquisition devices. This enhanced situational awareness will give military personnel a crucial time advantage in combat scenarios.

The system builds on the technology of the MUSS Jammer Head 2 (MJ2) and will introduce advanced detection and analysis capabilities. Future upgrades could include protective functions such as jamming and dazzling, which disrupt enemy electro-optical systems by interfering with signals or oversaturating sensors with strong light pulses.

As a multi-sensor system, ODAEON will integrate seamlessly with existing Bundeswehr defence technologies. Plans for further development include merging ODAEON with the MUSS system to enhance overall battlefield protection.

“With ODAEON, we are responding to a central requirement of modern battlefields: The ability to detect threats from enemy optical systems at an early stage and to protect combat vehicle crews in real time using automated warning systems,” said Dr Oliver Rudow, Head of the “Survivability” product line at HENSOLDT.