I have a few NVGs. They're definitely expensive (a good setup is $10k+) but it's definitely not true that they're all defect returns. L3 image intensifier tubes

I have a few NVGs. They're definitely expensive (a good setup is $10k+) but it's definitely not true that they're all defect returns. L3 image intensifier tubes that enter the civilian market are just as good as the military gets for the same product. For cheap (<$10k) NVGs that's a totally different story though. They do work in complete darkness! You just need an IR illumination source. If not using a weapon mounted illuminator you can just use an IR flashlight. Thermal doesn't require external illumination but isn't anywhere near as useful for navigation. That said, good IR laser + illuminator weapon mounted systems are a few thousand bucks too. My point about vision pro type devices is they can take a feed from real NVG tubes and potentially regular cameras and thermal and combine them. It'll be game changing when the tech is ready. It's not a matter of if but when.