Cambridge-based thermal imaging and augmented reality (AR) specialist Thermoteknix Systems has launched a new night-vision solution called the Fused Night Vision Goggle with Augmented Reality (FNVG-AR).
Launched at the DSEI 2023 defence exhibition in London in September, the FNVG-AR system is a state-of-the art, lightweight, fused binocular night vision goggle (NVG) integrated with the latest-generation 16 mm white phosphor night vision tubes and high-resolution thermal imager with optical sensor fusion. Thermoteknix bills the system as the only ITAR-free fused binocular night vision goggle currently available.
“FNVG-AR delivers outstanding performance, fusing night vision and thermal capabilities for soldiers to observe and manoeuvre in all weather conditions, during limited visibility, and under all light conditions for rapid threat detection and target engagement,” the company states. “Users can alternate between combinations of night vision, thermal and AR, while showing various user-selectable levels of AR information to ensure their optimal tactical advantage in the battlefield whether on patrol, reconnaissance or kinetic operations.”
Thermoteknix says the FNVG-AR system connects seamlessly to battle management systems (BMSs), including live blue force tracking, markers, navigation routes, waypoints or Jumpmaster information in intuitive 360° AR. The system can also display real-time video streaming from the BMS, including live video feeds from any integrated ISR or targeting asset.
Thermoteknix AR software enables users to overlay iconography, GPS and navigation data into the head-up display, with the integration of AR and video streaming giving soldiers real-time and actionable intelligence.
“Without distraction or lag, FNVG ensures eyes are always on target, without the need to expose an illuminated end user device (EUD) with consequent loss of focus and risk of detection,” the company asserts.
“The FNVG-AR combines over a decade of experience designing and manufacturing fused thermal and night vision products since Thermoteknix’ first fused systems were launched in 2012,” Dr Richard Salisbury, managing director of Thermoteknix, was quoted as saying in a company press release. “With the addition of AR and live video from connected systems streamed directly into the head-up display, the FNVG-AR is a groundbreaking milestone in the well-equipped, dismounted soldier [market]. Markers, targets, geodata, threats and now live ISR and targeting footage are integrated into our lightweight fused goggle without risk of exposure or detection. The demand for AR-driven intelligent systems by military forces has raised the effectiveness and safety of the dismounted soldier. At Thermoteknix we continue to generate new breakthroughs in AR technologies, delivering enhanced situational awareness and protecting soldiers on the ground.”
The Thermoteknix FNVG-AR is powered by ARTIM: a smart battery module mounted on the rear of the helmet, available in both 24-hour and a new significantly lower-profile, 12-hour format (ARTIM-MINI). ARTIM delivers real-time, uninterrupted AR capability to FNVG-AR, whether connected dynamically to a networked BMS or in isolation.
Thermoteknix’ ARTIM also supports a number of other Thermoteknix products, including ClipIR XD (a clip-on thermal imager that attaches to an existing night-vision device) and VisAR (a daytime HUD displaying AR information).
