[Sud Ouest] Olikrom has developed a chameleon paint for the military

Smart pigments for enhanced stealth and military signalling

At the Sofins 2025 special forces trade show in Gironde, France, Olikrom presented its latest innovations in “chameleon” pigments. These materials, developed in Pessac, enable certain markings applied to military vehicles or equipment to be made visible or invisible, depending on the lighting. Exhibited in the form of a tank photograph, one of the demonstrations showed how a simple light could reveal red or violet markings previously undetectable to the naked eye.

This technology makes it possible to meet critical operational needs, such as identifying one’s own vehicles in the field, masking one’s movements, or disorientating the enemy. Olikrom’s team of business engineers, including Amandine Joyeux and Maxime Darrieutort, specify that these solutions are designed to adapt to military observation systems, including night vision and radar.

Color intelligence applied to camouflage, detection and security

Olikrom is also developing heat-sensitive patches that can be integrated into combat suits to signal the presence of toxic gases. In another register, camouflage patterns have been created to appear, disappear or intensify according to ambient light, ensuring real-time adaptation to the terrain. These applications are based on the fundamental principle of “functional color”, i.e. the ability of matter to interact with its environment to transmit information.

With these innovations, Olikrom confirms its place at the heart of the French dual-technology sector. The company illustrates its ability to apply its intelligent pigments – initially developed for industry and road safety – to the sensitive and strategic defense sector. From LuminoKrom® paint to stealth inks, each application is based on the same promise: to see without being seen, to alert without sensors, to protect without electricity.