International technology group SCHOTT has introduced assembled protective windows, reinforcing its long-standing role as a trusted supplier of precision optics for defence programs. As a leading manufacturer of optical glass in Europe, SCHOTT operates continuous, large-scale glass melting facilities and provides a fully vertically integrated supply chain from raw materials to finished solutions that meet military standards.
SCHOTT consolidates melting, precision polishing, advanced coating technologies and mechanical integration within its operations, eliminating dependence on fragmented, multi-vendor supply chains for critical optical components. SCHOTT’s high-precision framing capabilities support adaptable large geometries, delivering consistent performance at scale. This comes at a pivotal time, as defence organisations increasingly prioritise secure sources for mission-essential technologies.
Supporting exterior systems, such as optical, infrared, and multi-sensor platforms used for surveillance or situation awareness, the company supplies assembled protective windows manufactured to meet the customer-specific design requirements. Recently, SCHOTT and HENSOLDT collaborated on the development and qualification of high-performance zinc sulphide (ZnS) protective windows for stabilised periscope systems used in modern armoured vehicles.
“We required windows that combine high transmission across visible and infrared wavelengths with extreme resistance to abrasion, environmental exposure and mechanical stress,” said Reinhard Seiwerth, Strategic Procurement at HENSOLDT. “SCHOTT delivered a fully qualified ZnS-based assembly that fulfilled all technical requirements and provides a robust interface for reliable operations.”
“Our products play a critical role in maintaining durable sensor performance over a system’s lifetime,” said Gernot Weber, Head of Sales EMEA Defense, Astro & Space and Advanced Optics at SCHOTT. “By combining materials expertise, advanced coating technologies, and optomechanical integration within a single, controlled value chain, SCHOTT delivers subsystems designed for consistency, long-term operation, and a seamless transition from prototype to series production.”
These windows serve as a first line of defence for sensitive optical and electro-optical systems, shielding critical components from dust, sand, rocks, humidity, debris and mechanical stress. Durable anti-reflective coatings enhance scratch resistance and maintain transmission properties after exposure to abrasion, sand, salt fog and humidity. Each unit undergoes pressure and quality assurance testing in accordance with military standards, enabling reliable deployment in applications such as periscopes, targeting systems and other defence equipment.
With more than half a century of experience serving defence programs, SCHOTT delivers specialty glass, precision optics and advanced coating technologies engineered for mission-critical applications across land, sea, air and space domains.