Modern camouflage in real-world testing: Multispectral camouflage systems protect troops and material
The Federal Office for Defence Procurement armasuisse tested multispectral camouflage systems (MSTS). These are aimed to protect the troops, vehicles and infrastructure from modern reconnaissance sensors. Specialists tested the systems for two weeks at the Thun and Bure Military Training Areas under realistic operating conditions.
Lucia Egger, specialist area Communication, competence area Strategic Staff
Changing camouflage
Traditional camouflage patterns are no longer sufficient today. Modern reconnaissance systems identify objects in the visible range as well as in the infrared and radar ranges – from the ground and from the air. This is exactly where multispectral camouflage systems come in: They reduce the signatures of objects over several spectral ranges and adapt them to the environment. This is crucial for the Swiss Armed Forces. Camouflage impedes enemy reconnaissance and thus protects soldiers, material and infrastructure.
From the laboratory to the terrain – armasuisse tested the systems in operation
In summer 2025, armasuisse tested the MSTS for two weeks at the Thun and Bure Military Training Areas. The goal was to test their impact under realistic conditions and to assess their benefits in operation. Previously, armasuisse Science and Technology had tested the systems in the laboratory. Based on this, the project team selected suitable providers for testing. Together with Joint Operations Command, the Air Force, the Land Forces, Armed Forces Staff and the Armed Forces Logistics Organisation, the specialists tested the systems in technical terms, in operations and in logistics.
Tests and training were interlinked
Each day of training started with a briefing. The project management and specialists informed the teams of the goals and procedures. The weeks of testing systematically combined tests and training. The troops thus became familiar with the MSTS in operations and at the same time trained with other systems. These included the Tactical Reconnaissance System (TASYS), which collects terrain and target information and provides it rapidly to the troops. Together with its carrier vehicle EAGLE – a lightweight, wheeled armoured vehicle – the teams tested the camouflage directly in operations. Helicopter assignments were also systematically integrated, to practice in a realistic setting and to use resources efficiently.
Impact from the perspectives of ground and air
The specialists checked the camouflage systems from various different distances and perspectives. On the ground, future users and specialists observed the systems directly on site. Amongst other tools, they used the thermal imaging device WBG LR 19, which detects objects over long distances and measures their heat emission. They systematically recorded their assessments and had them incorporated in the valuation. In addition, other thermal devices and night vision equipment as well as radar sensors were used. The teams tested static as well as moving objects and also assessed the visual camouflage with the naked eye. From the air, drones, helicopters and satellites showed how well the camouflage worked at different heights. It thus became clear which systems impeded enemy reconnaissance most effectively.
The weeks of testing showed how the systems function under real operating conditions – an important basis for our procurement decisions.
Sun, rain, fog and temperature fluctuations: Teams and camouflage stood firm
The weather posed additional challenges for the teams. Hot, sunny days were followed by rain, fog and considerable fluctuations in temperature. For the soldiers, this meant additional effort in construction, deployment and dismantling. At the same time, the changing conditions showed how reliably the camouflage systems function under different weather conditions. Despite adjustments – for example, with helicopter flights – the teams conducted all the tests.
Cooperation as a success factor
The Members of the Armed Forces tested the systems directly in operations and provided valuable feedback. Particularly in the militia system, material must not just be technically sound, but also robust and practicable. The close cooperation between the troops, specialists and the project team proved to be decisive. Despite the tight schedule, all tests were carried out.
Clear basis for procurement
The tests showed that the tested camouflage systems function reliably under realistic conditions. The specialists combined measurement data with observations from the ground and air perspectives as well as with the users’ feedback. A clear picture thus emerged of the capabilities in the various spectral ranges. At the same time, the troops gained practical experience in handling the systems. These findings form the basis for the procurement decisions. They ensure that the Swiss Armed Forces will receive practicable and effective camouflage solutions.