New Estonian night vision devices to help against “significantly” larger enemy
Estonia has ordered thousands of Argus FS MK2 night vision devices. (Photo: Estonian Centre for Defence Investments)
Argus is a family of Mil-Spec I2 multipurpose monocular systems that can be operated handheld or head-, helmet- or weapon-mounted.
The Estonian Defence Forces has begun to receive Theon Sensors’ Argus (Fail Safe) FS MK2 night vision devices in an effort to provide a tactical advantage against what is described as “an enemy [which] significantly outnumbers” Estonian forces.
The Argus systems, manufactured by the Greek company which was selected from among 16 bidders, were delivered to the forces by the Estonian Centre for Defence Investments (ECDI).
Lt Col Riho Juurik, head of the logistics department at the headquarters of Estonian Defence Forces, said: “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.”
The system was described in a statement announcing the start of deliveries as “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.” the statement continued.
The devices will equip approximately 10,000 soldiers.
Shephard Defence Insight noted there were two versions available: Argus LW (Light Weight) and Argus FS (Fail Safe with 100% shut off mechanism). The systems have have 4+2° of adjustment and both versions are offered with or without manual gain control.
Head and helmet mounts support ambidextrous operation and feature a quick-release dovetail mechanism, collimated LoS, randomly bridged to dual binocular configuration and optional long-range laser illuminator.
Related Equipment in Defence Insight
More from Land Warfare
-
![SOF Week 2026: The Gear Keeping Warfighters Ready in Extreme Climates (Video)]()
SOF Week 2026: The Gear Keeping Warfighters Ready in Extreme Climates (Video)
At SOF Week 2026, Pro-Shot Defense discusses the maintenance technologies and weapon support tools designed to keep special operations forces mission ready in the world’s harshest environments.
-
![Sweden looks to commercial world to meet military UGV needs]()
Sweden looks to commercial world to meet military UGV needs
Stockholm is exploring commercial avenues to provide a small uncrewed ground vehicle capable of carrying 500kg with a focus on challenging terrains and C2 systems.
-
![Are counter-drone systems for dismounted troops emerging as the next procurement battle?]()
Are counter-drone systems for dismounted troops emerging as the next procurement battle?
As uncrewed aerial systems and loitering munitions evolve, it is increasingly necessary for counter-uncrewed solutions to keep pace in order to protect not only military facilities and platforms but also dismounted troops.
-
![Patria TRACKX - The ultimate tracked all-terrain armoured vehicle]()
Patria TRACKX - The ultimate tracked all-terrain armoured vehicle
Patria TRACKX, the ultimate tracked all-terrain armoured vehicle, is designed to conquer the most challenging environments with ease.
-
![NATO’s Crystal Arrow factors in Ukrainian UGV lessons as European interest grows]()
NATO’s Crystal Arrow factors in Ukrainian UGV lessons as European interest grows
One goal of NATO’s Exercise Crystal Arrow was to identify the potential uses of uncrewed ground vehicles – as seen on the Ukrainian battlefield – and put platforms into the hands of users.
-
![SOF Week 2026: Galvion unveils Cortex Evo integrated combat helmet]()
SOF Week 2026: Galvion unveils Cortex Evo integrated combat helmet
Galvion has introduced its Cortex Evo integrated head system, combining ballistic protection, power, data and processing capabilities within a single combat helmet architecture.
