April 07, 2025. VIGO Photonics, Ożarów Mazowiecki-based producer of the most advanced mid-infrared detectors and semiconductor materials, has entered into a strategic framework agreement with PCO from Warsaw (part of Polish Armaments Group, PGZ) – a manufacturer of optoelectronic solutions for the military.
Photos: VIGO Photonics
The document defines the terms and conditions of long-term cooperation, aiming at the final development of arrays in line with PCO’s demand, followed by their production and sale. The estimated value of the contract is almost PLN 200 million. The product, created by VIGO Photonics, could be a key piece of equipment for modern military thermal imaging cameras.
The contract is for the supply of cooled infrared detector arrays, a new product line developed by VIGO using state-of-the-art semiconductor technology based on T2SL superlattices. The infrared detector arrays consist of hundreds of thousands or even millions of active pixels that record thermal radiation with extreme precision. Because of the high sensitivity required, they operate at extremely low temperatures, close to that of liquid nitrogen. The semiconductor layer of these detectors is made of Group III-V materials, which makes it possible to achieve exceptional detection properties.
These matrices will find application in, among others, the latest combat platforms, as well as in anti-aircraft systems in both the Polish army and the European defense industry. They will be used to detect and identify targets in all atmospheric conditions, both day and night, increasing the effectiveness and safety of soldiers’ operations. These are technologies that not only strengthen Poland’s security, but also show that our country is joining the elite group of countries capable of independently producing top-of-the-line components for the defense industry.
PCO, as a key company for the Polish military, has for years been committed to developing cooperation with domestic business partners, aiming to maintain the stability of strategic supply chains. The company not only designs and implements innovative systems for the Polish Armed Forces, but also constantly seeks synergies with Polish scientific and technological centers, contributing to the development of domestic industrial and technological potential.
We have had the pleasure of working with VIGO Photonics for many years, the agreement signed today is the result of joint research and development work. Responsibility for the security and efficiency of the supply chain is one of PCO’s priorities, especially in the context of key support for the Polish Army. Introducing a new die supplier as an additional source of supply is a strategic step that will allow us not only to increase flexibility but also to ensure that we are ready to respond quickly to dynamically changing needs. This is an investment in stability, reliability and shared security. Today’s signing is fully in line with the PGZ S.A. Group’s strategy of increasing defense manufacturing capabilities and seeking partnerships in the private sector. Thanks to this cooperation, Poland will join the elite group of countries that have their own semiconductor technologies that can be used in state-of-the-art optoelectronic devices on the modern battlefield, said Marek Adamiak, CEO of PCO.
The signing of the agreement with PCO is not only a business success for us. It is proof that Polish engineering thought and years of consistent investment in research and development translate into real products that build independence and national security, says Adam Piotrowski, CEO of VIGO Photonics. Importantly, the signed agreement does not exhaust our production potential. We will consistently develop this breakthrough technology so that it can find application not only in further advanced military systems, but also in ambitious space projects. This opens up the prospect of attractive new contracts on the domestic and international markets.
It is worth noting that the signed agreement is the result of several years of cooperation and persistent research and development. Already by the end of this year, VIGO will deliver to PCO the first series of matrices for military testing, and from 2026 production will start. Thanks to this cooperation, the Polish defense industry will also be able to benefit from a domestic source of supply for key components, allowing for flexibility while maintaining continuity in supply chains.
The production of these advanced semiconductor and optoelectronic technologies in Poland is also a huge opportunity for the domestic economy. A portion of armament spending remains in the country, driving the development of modern technological solutions and strengthening the potential of domestic companies and research and development centers. This is an investment not only in security, but also in the future of the Polish economy based on knowledge and innovation. It will also benefit young engineers and scientists, who have the opportunity to work on the most advanced projects implemented in Poland.
The defense sector is all about trust and reliability. Our dies are made in Poland, from the idea to the final product, with the involvement of our engineers and scientists, Piotrowski adds. It’s not just technology. It’s a foundation for security and the future.
The focal plane arrays development project carried out by VIGO Photonics is part of a broader strategy to build national technological competence. The company holds a license issued by the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Administration for the production of equipment for the military, which opens up further opportunities for development in international markets as well.