German Forces Equipped with High-Resolution Optics for Nighttime Operations

HENSOLDT is equipping the German Armed Forces with 90 additional Spotter 42 observation optics, following the delivery of a first batch in 2023.  

The Spotter 42 is optimized for use with night vision and thermal imaging attachments (NSV and IRV). It offers improvement in observation capability in restricted visibility conditions, ideal for snipers and night combat. 

Compared to the Spotter 60, which is already in use by the German Armed Forces, the magnification range of the Spotter 42 starts at six times (6-42x) instead of twenty times. The enhanced Spotter 42 complements HENSOLDT’s Spotter 60, and replaces a predecessor model.

The observation optics have become more compact due to a modified optical concept. The result is a high magnification range with low initial magnification, while simultaneously reducing the weight. 

The Spotter 42 complies with Bundeswehr specifications, and features adjustable reticle illumination as well as an integrated laser filter.

The laser filter compensates for the magnification-related increase in radiance of harmful laser radiation without noticeably impairing the visual transmission values.

The accessories include a long mounting rail with a Picatinny profile on both sides, allowing attachments of different heights to be used. Additional mounting rails on the device enable the attachment of various additional devices such as target pointers or rangefinders. 

HENSOLDT state that the Spotter 42 was well received by users and procurers from the military authorities of European nations at EnforceTac 2024, Nuremberg, and will be offered as a series device. In a further expansion stage, it will receive additional functional additions in the future that will expand its area of use.

Sales Manager Josef Reif commented; “The initial feedback from users has been more than positive. The optical performance of the Spotter 42 is outstanding. It represents a milestone in the compact observation optics device category with its large field of view, high edge-to-edge sharpness and brilliant image quality across the entire magnification range of 6-42x.”