Bern, 17.06.2025 — From July to September 2025, the Federal Office for Defence Procurement armasuisse will test the camouflage and subterfuge systems of potential suppliers as part of the multispectral camouflage system project (MSTS) at the Thun and Bure Military Training Areas. Due to the advances made in the development of reconnaissance technologies, it is necessary to procure improved means of camouflage and subterfuge that meet the latest requirements in order to protect deployed members of the Swiss Armed Forces from injury or death and the systems and resources in use from damage. The contract is expected to be awarded at the end of 2025.
Due to the increase in the use of modern reconnaissance systems such as drones, radars and satellite-based sensors as well as the utilisation of electro-optical (EO) systems, thermal imaging devices and sensor-controlled missiles, camouflaging our own systems is becoming ever more important. Camouflage and subterfuge are key multi-layered protective measures for ensuring the survival capability of our deployed assets. Special camouflage systems that are also prepared to deal with modern reconnaissance technologies are required to maintain camouflage capabilities during combat and thus provide our soldiers and their equipment with effective protection.
Within the framework of an invitation procedure, we contacted several potential supplies that were identified and selected in advance based on a procurement market analysis. The procurement market analysis revealed that there were a limited number of potential suppliers that could offer camouflage system that would meet the defined system criteria. In the first round, the selected suppliers were invited to submit offers, with armasuisse Science and Technology reviewing and testing the sample elements to determine if they met the technical criteria.
With a shortlist of candidates that best fulfilled the criteria drawn up, the next step is to carry out prototype trials for various systems. The aim of this testing is to assess the camouflage and subterfuge equipment with the various stakeholders of the DDPS, such as the Armed Forces Staff, Joint Operations Command, the Swiss Air Force and the Land Forces. In addition, the Armed Forces Logistics Organisation (AFLO) will have the opportunity to carry out an initial logistical assessment. The testing will be carried out at the Thun and Bure Military Training Areas from July to September 2025.
Multispectral camouflage is an effective method of achieving an optimal camouflage effect that provides protection against the latest reconnaissance equipment. Today, reconnaissance activities are no longer limited to the capabilities of the human eye – drones and sensors can record heat emissions, UV rays, visual signals, thermal and near-infrared radiation as well as short-, medium- and long-wave infrared signatures. As modern reconnaissance systems find the location of ground targets by means of microwaves, for example, MSTS will also help to reduce radar signatures (the response of an object to electromagnetic waves). A high-performance camouflage system therefore provides protection in multiple spectrums at the same time and also helps to protect soldiers and infrastructure from enemy reconnaissance.
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