SOF Visual Augmentation, Lasers and Sensor Systems
Abstract
This project provides for development, testing and integration 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. 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 for SOF. These devices provide the SOF operator the ability to maneuver, conduct fire control operations, and perform surveillance and reconnaissance. Research and Development efforts will develop, test, and evaluate prototype systems of the next generation Fusion system. These Visual Augmentation Systems will provide an all-weather, low-light capability for SOF personnel by employing a Block approach. This Block approach produces a family of VAS systems which will utilize a variety of different sensor technologies to satisfy the capabilities defined by 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. Some of the capability shortfalls identified by the SOF community are the following: (1) ability to detect, classify, and engage targets out to 800 m without the use of an infra-red illuminator; (2) ability to determine wind speed at ranges out to 500 m or greater and (3) ability to observe bullet trace at ranges of 800 m or greater. 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 (MDNS) 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 (ATPIAL) hardening to withstand the live-fire shock profiles for the Combat Assault Rifle (CAR), 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, 2014
- Source ID
- S395_1160479BB_7_0400_PB_2014
Related Documents
- Root: SOF Visual Augmentation, Lasers and Sensor Systems
- Child Accomplishment: VAS
- Child Cost Item: 00117ede9d1d6a55c4a065a523ae26b0
- Child Cost Item: 064fd5b42945f1dd64c5bd7b5c8664db
- Child Cost Item: d6bb56d950506e52b4c2c68cd15d45ee
- Child Cost Item: adbba771be09902d385bee0fbb769f24