Advances in thermal and night observation technology means that an enemy now has the equipment that enables them to see and detect us, even when we think that we are hidden from sight, either by poor light conditions, or when hidden behind traditional camouflage equipment.  As such the NZ Army has procured improved camouflage equipment and the role of this equipment is to provide a means of deception, to assist in defeating the observation and surveillance devices used on the modern battlefield.

Although there are only two main types of camouflage equipment they can be configured in a number of ways to meet the needs of a wide variety of the Army's equipment, in a variety of tactical situations.

Ultra Lightweight 3D Camouflage Screen (ULCAS)

The ULCAS system is produced by Saab Barracuda and gives multispectral protection in a wide variety of tactical situations. The screen/camouflage net system is designed to reduce vehicle signatures in the visual, infrared and radar bands of the electromagnetic spectrum, and comes in a variety of sizes and configurations, providing protection for the following:

• Vehicles - LAV, LOV and Unimog
• Small equipment - generators, trailers, motorcycles
• Observation Posts
• Individuals and small teams

Advanced Reversible Camouflage Screen (ARCUS)

The ARCUS system is also produced by Saab Barracuda and similarly gives multispectral protection in a number of situations. The intended use for this system is to be integrated with additional General Purpose 6.0 x 6.0 meter screens to provide sufficient camouflage protection over a multitude of equipment. It differs from the ULCAS system in that it has a different pattern on each of its reversible sides, thus increasing its versatility and ability to provide protection against two different visual backgrounds