Europe’s Infrared Defense Sovereignty

Exosens contributes to Europe’s stratégic Defense Sovereignty in infrared sensing through SPIRIT initiative

PRESS RELEASE
MÉRIGNAC, FRANCE - 26 MAY 2026

Exosens joins SPIRIT, a major European initiative advancing infrared sensing technologies with focus on next-generation small-pitch, large-format IR detectors
A strategic step toward strengthening Europe’s technological sovereignty in defense
Development of a fully European end-to-end IR supply chain
Industrial-ready solutions targeted within four years

Exosens (EXENS; FR001400Q9V2), a high-tech company specializing in mission and performance-critical amplification, detection, and imaging technologies, today announces its participation in a new initiative, SPIRIT, a major European collaborative project aimed at accelerating the development of high-performance infrared (IR) sensing technologies and strengthening Europe’s technological sovereignty in defense.

The project focuses on advancing small-pitch, large-format IR detectors, critical components for next-generation defense systems requiring higher resolution, enhanced sensitivity, and smarter embedded functionalities. These capabilities are currently led by non-European suppliers, creating strategic dependency risks.

As a key contributor to the project, Exosens will leverage its expertise in advanced detection and imaging technologies to support the transition from research to industrial readiness. Over the next four years, SPIRIT will bring breakthrough innovations to operational maturity including the development of advanced semiconductor components, integration of multiple IR materials, and delivery of fully operational detector systems and camera prototypes tested in real-world environments.

A core objective is to establish a fully European, end-to-end supply chain, from semiconductor design to camera systems, reducing reliance on external technologies and enabling faster deployment across defense platforms.

Bringing together leading industrial players, research organizations, and system integrators, SPIRIT is designed to align technological innovation with operational needs. Through its involvement, Exosens reinforces its commitment to supporting Europe’s defense capabilities and contributing to the development of sovereign, high-performance sensing solutions for the 2030 horizon.

About SPIRIT

SPIRIT is a European collaborative project dedicated to transforming advanced infrared sensing technologies into industrial-ready solutions for defense and security applications. This project has received funding from the European Union’s European Defence Fund (EDF).

Download the press release

Media Relations:

Brunswick Group - exosens@brunswickgroup.com