Visual Augmentation, Lasers and Sensor Systems
Abstract
This project provides for development, testing, integration and training of specialized visual augmentation, laser and sensor system equipment to meet the unique requirements of Special Operations Forces (SOF). Specialized equipment will permit small, highly trained forces to conduct required operations within harsh environments, for unspecified periods and in locations requiring small unit autonomy across the globe in support of operations. SOF must infiltrate by land, sea, and air to conduct unconventional warfare, direct action, or deep reconnaissance operations in denied areas against insurgent units, terrorist, or highly sophisticated threat mandates that SOF systems remain technologically superior to enemy threats to ensure mission success. Visual Augmentation Systems (VAS). This program develops, buys prototypes, and supports fielding of operator-borne combat optics and lasers for SOF. These devices provide the SOF operator the ability to maneuver, conduct effects collaboration, control operations and perform surveillance and reconnaissance. Research and Development efforts will develop, test, train and evaluate prototype systems of the next generation Fusion system. These Visual Augmentation and Situational Awareness (SA) systems will provide an all-weather, low-light capability for SOF personnel by employing a block approach (Evolutionary Acquisition). This Block approach produces a family of VAS systems which will utilize a variety of sensor technologies to satisfy the capabilities defined by the individual Block requirement. Some examples of the types of sensor technologies that these systems may utilize include: Image Intensification, Thermal, Short Wave Infrared (SWIR) and/or multi-spectral. To date the Target Engagement Portfolio has utilized several Block system approaches that have been fielded by the VAS program. These VAS programs will be a developmental effort to produce and field the next generation systems for SOF personnel to maintain the edge and reduce weight while improving the operator’s abilty to make military decisions with improved SA. SOF Improvements include the following: (1) Ability to detect, classify and engage targets without the use of an infrared illuminator; (2) ability to determine wind speed; (3) ability to observe bullet trace; (4) size and weight of the equipment hampers mobility and agility (weight reduction). Sensor or Data Fusion combines or integrates the outputs from multiple sensors operating in different spectra into a single image while presenting the data in a useful manner to the operator and protecting the goggle from laser damage. Digital Signal Enhancement stores and processes an image to sharpen, expand, or filter out unwanted information, thereby improving resolution and enhancing an image’s utility to operators. SOF laser capability. SOF is required to provide collaboration guidance and control for platforms, weapons and capabilities provided by a variety of systems and providers. The capability will provide interoperability with US and Coalition forces. SOF dismounted and mounted forces need the ability to mark, designate, and point objects of interest to collaborate the intent of the ground force commander to the capability providers in a timely and safe manner. This capability will provide SOF forces the most efficient and lightweight capability to conduct operations. Visual Augmentation Systems Weapons Accessories (VASWA). This program effort enhances all SOF weapons, both individual and crew served, by leveraging the latest technological advances in optional accessories (up to 30 different functions / capabilities) such as combat optics, aiming laser modules, visible lights, and close quarters battle sights. Miniature Day-Night Sight for crew-served weapons enhances all SOF Weapons by leveraging existing image intensification and thermal technology to improve combat effectiveness for all crew-served weapon systems. Development efforts include test and evaluation of the Advanced Target Pointer Illuminator Aiming Laser hardening to withstand the live-fire shock profiles for the Combat Assault Rifle, VAS and clandestine pointer. Leveraging extensive modeling and simulation efforts executed by National Labs. Also, competitively award RDT&E contracts to select vendors in order to develop clandestine operator-borne visual augmentation devices. These accessories greatly improve the combat effectiveness of the weapon systems and the survivability of the SOF operator.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Project
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 2015
- Source ID
- S395_1160431BB_7_0400_PB_2015
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