German Bundestag approves purchase of IRIS thermal imaging systems for battlefield digitalization

IRIS

On June 26, 2025, the German Bundestag approved the purchase of IRIS thermal imaging overhead systems, a digital product jointly developed by Theon and Berlin-based Andres Industries AG. This purchase was a key step in Germany's battlefield digitalization strategy and modernization of infantry capabilities.

Features of the IRIS system

- IRIS is not just traditional thermal imaging or night vision devices, but part of a new family of ARMED (Augmented Reality Modular Enhanced Devices) systems aimed at increasing tactical awareness and survivability of soldiers.

- The system integrates with existing night-time devices, in particular with Theon Mikron glasses widely used in the Bundeswehr.

- IRIS combines enhanced imaging with thermal overlays, which makes it possible to detect camouflaged or stationary targets in difficult conditions such as dense vegetation, smoke, and low light conditions.

- This significantly improves the speed of detection, recognition and destruction of targets, which is critical in modern asymmetric and low-visibility combat conditions.

Investments and prospects

- The initial investment is 49 million euros.

- With the purchase options, the total amount may exceed 200 million euros.

"The purchase of IRIS marks the transition from analog optical devices to fully integrated, multispectral battlefield awareness systems.

- It is expected that IRIS thermal imaging systems will be widely implemented in infantry units, which will increase their effectiveness and survival.

Thus, the acquisition of IRIS is an important element of the modernization of the Bundeswehr, aimed at digital transformation and increasing the combat capabilities of the German troops.

Putin declared a truce on the days of the 80th anniversary of Victory

 Putin declared a truce on the days of the 80th anniversary of the Victory, the Kremlin said. 

"According to the decision of the Supreme Commander-in–Chief of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation Vladimir Putin, based on humanitarian considerations, on the days of the 80th anniversary of the Victory – from zero hours from 7 to 8 May to zero hours from 10 to 11 May - the Russian side declares a truce. All military operations are stopped for this period.

Russia believes that the Ukrainian side should follow this example.

In case of violations of the truce by the Ukrainian side, the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation will provide an adequate and effective response.

The Russian side once again declares its readiness for peaceful negotiations without preconditions aimed at eliminating the root causes of the Ukrainian crisis and constructive cooperation.