The German arms procurement agency, BAAINBw, has officially contracted Hensoldt to spearhead the development of an innovative optical detection demonstrator named ODAEON. This advanced technology is designed to significantly enhance automated reconnaissance capabilities by enabling the detection of various enemy optical systems, including drones and optical target acquisition mechanisms.
Following a successful design phase, ODAEON has completed its concept review in December 2024. The contract, valued at 17.6 million euros (approximately 18.42 million dollars), will extend through 2026, culminating in the delivery of a demonstrator that will achieve a technology readiness level six. The BAAINBw will conduct comprehensive testing of the system in 2026.
Oliver Rudow, the head of the ‘Survivability’ product line at Hensoldt, articulated the essence of ODAEON, noting that it addresses a critical requirement on modern battlefields: the need for early detection of threats posed by enemy optical systems. This capability is essential for ensuring the safety of combat vehicle crews through real-time automated warning systems. Rudow emphasized that the introduction of ODAEON is a pivotal step toward equipping armed forces with cutting-edge technologies that enhance operational effectiveness while ensuring personnel safety.
ODAEON employs the established technology of the MUSS Jammer Head 2 soft-kill active-protection system as its foundation. The system will be outfitted with multiple interfaces to accommodate various platforms and additional sensors to ensure fail-safe operation. Looking ahead, plans for the next development phase include enhancing the system’s ability to analyze enemy optical technologies, with potential upgrades for jamming and dazzling functionalities.
The jamming feature aims to disrupt enemy electro-optical systems through targeted interference signals, while the dazzling capability intends to overwhelm optical devices, such as cameras and target acquisition systems, with intense light pulses. According to Hensoldt, both techniques are instrumental in bolstering the protective measures for military vehicles by significantly hindering enemy reconnaissance and target acquisition efforts.
Furthermore, there are plans to integrate ODAEON with MUSS technologies, ensuring a comprehensive protective solution for military operations. This strategic collaboration aims to facilitate a robust defense mechanism in increasingly complex and hostile environments on the battlefield. The developments surrounding ODAEON indicate a commitment to advancing Germany’s military capabilities through enhanced sensor technologies and innovative defense strategies.
