Thales UK has unveiled new armored vehicle surveillance technology designed to help crews track threats faster and operate more effectively under battlefield pressure. The company demonstrated the systems at the 2026 International Armoured Vehicles conference, emphasizing improved sensor performance without adding hardware complexity.
The spotlight was on DigitalCrew, a software solution that enhances armored vehicle sensors through advanced processing and automation. By automatically detecting movement and heat signatures, the system helps crews remain focused during long missions where fatigue can reduce awareness. DigitalCrew also supports continuous target tracking, enabling weapon systems to follow fast-moving threats such as unmanned aerial vehicles.
To boost situational awareness, DigitalCrew merges feeds from multiple cameras, combining thermal and daytime imagery into a single, clearer view. The software applies machine learning to assist with target recognition and can be trained using operator-provided data. A turbulence correction feature further sharpens imagery when heat distortion and atmospheric conditions degrade sensor effectiveness.
Alongside DigitalCrew, Thales presented TrueHunter, a compact above-armor panoramic sight that delivers uninterrupted 360-degree surveillance. Featuring infrared sensors, a laser rangefinder, and the SharpView laser designator, the system is designed to maintain targeting accuracy in poor visibility and harsh weather, while also offering potential integration with drones and other unmanned platforms.
