Space Optics

Precision Optics for Defense

High-performance optical systems become the vigilant eyes of defense structures put in place to protect us all. Optikos designs and manufactures very fast optical imaging systems (f/1) and ruggedized assemblies that maintain diffraction-limited performance across extreme thermal and mechanical stress. Backed by proprietary metrology with full ITAR compliance. 

Optikos delivers ITAR-compliant optical engineering, ruggedized opto-mechanics, and production-level testing for defense and national security systems. We support SWaP-constrained, multispectral visible and IR platforms with secure manufacturing, trusted validation, athermalization, and scalable production—enabling reliable long-range DRI performance

The Closed-Loop Advantage: Design, Manufacturing, and Metrology Combined

Defense teams have no room for error. At Optikos, we eliminate risks by controlling the entire optical chain under one roof. We bridge the gap between concept and deployment by combining SWIR to long wave design experience with proprietary metrology tools that we built ourselves. That way, design, manufacturing, and validation can operate in a seamless, closed-loop, and safe feedback cycle. 

Experience the Power of Vertical Integration 

  • Full-Spectrum Design Expertise: Our engineering team of experts possesses deep experience designing for SWIR, Mid-Wave (MWIR), and Long-Wave (LWIR) infrared bands. We understand the unique material constraints and thermal behaviors of each spectrum. 

  • Proprietary Validation Tools: To ensure our designs perform as predicted, we have developed specialized instrumentation that fills critical gaps in the market:  

  • SWIR Image Analyzers: Custom-built tools to characterize short-wave performance with high fidelity. 

  • Mid-Wave MTF Measurement: Utilizing advanced scanning edge techniques to measure contrast and resolution in the mid-wave spectrum. 

  • Exclusive Thermal Sources: We leverage high-precision black body sources (calibrated specifically for mid-wave) to simulate real-world thermal targets during qualification. 

  • Continuous Innovation: We are actively advancing our capabilities based on the specific needs of our defense clients. 

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Explore Solutions

Long-Range Surveillance | Eyes on the Horizon

Defense missions depend on optics that deliver exceptional clarity over vast distances. Our solutions provide high-resolution imaging and superior contrast for surveillance systems operating in challenging conditions—day or night.
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Multi-Sensor Targeting Platforms | Precision Across the Spectrum

Modern targeting systems integrate visible, infrared, and laser sensors. We design and manufacture optical assemblies that ensure seamless alignment and performance across multiple modalities, enabling accurate target acquisition and engagement.
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Infrared & Thermal Imaging | Performance in Any Environment

Thermal and IR optics are critical for situational awareness in low-light or obscured conditions. Our expertise in IR materials and coatings ensures reliable performance under extreme temperatures and harsh environments.
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Ruggedized Optical Systems | Built for the Battlefield

Defense optics must withstand shock, vibration, and environmental extremes. We engineer ruggedized systems that maintain optical integrity and alignment under the most demanding operational scenarios.
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Mission Success Starts with Optical Precision

Partner with Optikos to design, validate, and deliver optical systems that meet the highest standards of defense performance. Contact Us to start your journey.
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Engineered for Extreme Environments 

From the desert heat to arctic cold, our systems stay in focus. 

Defense optics have to perform in any type of environmental shift. Our ruggedized systems and testing protocols ensure reliability where commercial optics would drift or fracture. 

  • Passive Athermalization: We utilize advanced athermalization techniques, selecting materials and mechanical structures that compensate for thermal expansion. Your system remains in focus across the full operational temperature range. 
  • Ruggedized Testing: Every unit undergoes shock, vibration, and thermal cycling tests that exceed MIL-STD requirements. We validate opto-mechanical integrity before the hardware ever leaves our cleanroom. 
  • Sealed & Protected: Custom hermetic sealing and protective coatings ensure longevity in salt spray, dust, and high-humidity environments. 

Secure, Compliant, and Ready for Government Procurement 

We understand that defense contracts require absolute trust in the supply chain. Optikos is a trusted partner for the US Department of Defense and allied nations. 

Certifications & Standards
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ISO 9001
Quality Management Systems
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ISO 13485

Medical Devices

Precision Optical Systems for Mission-Critical Performance

Optikos translates advanced optical design into rugged, deployment-ready hardware at scale.

Dennis Fantone - Director of Operations

Take a behind-the-scenes look at how mission-critical optical systems are built for defense applications.

Case Studies

Discover how we've solved complex space optics challenges for projects like yours.
Latest Case Study
Optikos OpTest System
Defense
August 2025

Giving Stray Light a Home

Optikos identified and eliminated a critical stray light issue by combining advanced Zemax modeling, precision metrology, and targeted opto‑mechanical redesign—achieving over 10× reduction in unwanted reflections.
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More Success Stories

Defense
July 2025
Automation Strategy Cuts Cycle Time by 50% for AR Lens Testing
View/print as a PDF Primary Challenges & Breakthroughs Augmented reality (AR) lens manufacturing faces important testing challenges due to complex multi-parameter validation requirements and sequential testing dependencies. Cycle time constraints create critical bottlenecks for augmented reality optics, with comprehensive performance testing of high-precision AR lenses averaging 3-8 minutes per unit—directly impacting manufacturing throughput, workforce costs, and delivery schedules. A new
Defense
January 2020
Large Area Optics
MATERION ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS “The technical expertise and skills of the Large Optics Equipment Development Team enabled our success. These included Materion technical oversight provided by Ian Tribick. Dale L’Hussier managed the day-to-day activities and planning of the construction project. Steve Chiavaroli led the Dynavac team, John Prittie led the Interlab team and Steve Fantone led the Optikos team. Steve Chiavaroli and
Defense
December 2013
Production Testing of Guidance Systems
Our defense client is a high volume manufacturer of defense electro-optical systems and wanted to develop a flexible test station that would provide an automated capability to test a variety of guidance systems with a broad range of performance requirements and a very unique physical configuration. Optikos designed, developed, and delivered an advanced, large scale, remotely operated production guidance system

Ready to Launch Your Next Defense Mission?

Partner with Optikos to develop precision optical solutions that meet the extreme demands of defense. Our Optical Engineering Experts® are ready for your next project.

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