In The DarkGeneralA night vision device (NVD) is an optical instrument that allows images to be produced in levels of light approaching total darkness. They are most often used by the military and law enforcement agencies, but are available to civilian users. The term usually refers to a complete unit, including an image intensifier tube, a protective and generally water-resistant housing, and some type of mounting system. Many NVDs also include sacrificial lenses,IR illuminators, and telescopic lenses.Night vision devices were first used in World War II, and came into wide use during the Vietnam War. The technology has evolved greatly since their introduction, leading to several "generations" of night vision equipment with performance increasing and price decreasing. Another term is "night optical device" or NOD.Night vision devices (NVDs) have allowed humans to easily blend into and exploit an environment that was once only conquered through the use of flashlights and flood lamps. Whether in goggle or binocular form, these devices have given people a significant edge, first in military combat and more recently in surveillance, security, and rescue operations. As NVDs continue to be modified and improved, they have found applications in ocular surgeries and are currently being researched for use in automobiles and pedestrian detection. The history and technology behind NVDs is addressed, as well as modern and future applications.

Night Vision TechnologyNight vision technology uses image intensification (I2) to see details at night because it works by intensifying the existing light spectrum. Low levels of ambient light pass through a photocathode that converts the light photons to electrons, then amplifies them. Sensitivity levels to various infrared, ultraviolet and visible spectrum wavelengths vary with the exact device. They then hit a phosphor screen (read: TV screen) where they are converted into visible light (read: picture). The phosphor screen is colored green because the human eye can differentiate more shades of green than other phosphor colors. Like cameras, night vision devices have various image magnifications. The distance at which a human-sized figure can be clearly recognized under normal conditions (moon and star light, with no haze or fog) depends on both the magnifying power of the objective lens and the strength of the image intensifier. A complementary technology infrared (IR) or thermal imaging uses heat sources (aka. deep infrared spectrum) instead. Because infrared is actively emitted and not just reflected, and isnt blocked as easily as visible light, this form of infravision works in no-light conditions that may prevail underground and inside dark buildings, or in conditions like dust storms, fog, etc. The more sophisticated night vision systems for US soldiers also incorporate IR technology to provided another way to see things at night.GenerationsThe night vision industry has evolved through three generations of development. Each generation offers more sensitivity and can operate effectively on less light.

The early 1960s witnessed the beginning of passive night vision. Technological improvements included vacuum-tight fused fiber optics for good center resolution and improved gain, multi-alkali photocathodes and fiber optic input and output windows. Generation I devices lacked the sensitivity and light amplification necessary to see below full moonlight and were often staged or cascaded to improve gain. As a result, Generation I systems were large and cumbersome, less reliable, and relatively poor low-light imagers. They were also characterized by streaking and distortion. Operating life expectancy of Generation I image intensifier tubes was about 2,000 hours.The development of the microchannel plate (MCP) led to the birth of Generation II devices in the late 1960s and early 1970s. Higher electron gains were now possible through smaller packaging, and performance improvements made observation possible down to 1/4 moonlight. The first proximity focused MCP image intensifier tube was an 18mm used in the original AN/PVS-5 night vision goggles. Generation II tubes had a life expectancy from 2,500 hours to 4,000 hours. Generation II+ provided improved performance over standard Generation II by providing increased gain at high and low levels. Generation II+ equipment provided the best image under full moonlight conditions and was recommended for urban environments.A Generation III intensifier multiplies the light gathering power of the eye or video receptor up to 30,000 times. Requiring over 460 manufacturing steps, the Generation III intensifier is typically characterized by a gallium arsenide (GaAs) photocathode. The photon sensitivity of the GaAs photocathode extends into the near-infrared region, where night sky illumination and contrast ratios are highest. Sealed to an input window that minimizes veiling glare, the photocathode generates an electron current which is proximity focused onto a phosphor screen, where the electron energy is converted into green light that can then be relayed to the eye or sensor through an output window. Continuing improvements have increased the operating life expectancy of Generation III tubes to 10,000 hours. This is an important consideration when the intensifier tube normally represents 50% of the overall cost of the night vision system.Generation IIIs high infrared response complements this phenomenon, creating a sharper, more informative image.Generation III+ devices differ from standard Generation III in 3 ways. First, an automatic gated power supply system regulates the photocathode voltage, allowing the device to adapt instantaneously to changing light conditions.The 2nd way is a removed or greatly thinned ion barrier, which decreases the amount of electrons that are usually rejected by the standard Generation III MCP, resulting in less image noise and the ability to operate with a luminous sensitivity at 2850K of only 700, compared to operating with a luminous sensitivity of at least 1800 for Generation III type image intensifier.And the 3rd way is combining the I2 and IR technologies to enable troops to use the goggles in any environment. Other technologies

The panoramic night vision goggles (PNVGs) which double the user's field of view to around 95 degrees by using four 16mm image intensifier tubes, rather than the more standard two 18mm tubes. The U.S. Naval Special Warfare Development Group was equipped with Panoramic Night Vision Goggles attached to their helmets during Operation Neptune Spear, the operation that killed Osama Bin Laden .A new technology is being introduced to the consumer market currently. It was first shown at the 2012 Shot Show in Las Vegas, NV by Armasight. This new technology called Ceramic Optical Ruggedized Engine (CORE) produces much higher performance Gen 1 tubes. The main difference between CORE tubes and standard Gen 1 tubes is introduction of a ceramic plate instead of a glass one. This plate is produced of specially formulated ceramic and metal alloys. Thanks to the new technology edge distortion is minimized, photo sensitivity is greatly increased and the resolution can get as high as 60 lp/mm. Even so, CORE is still considered Gen 1 as it does not utilize a micro channel plate. Scientists at the University of Michigan have developed a contact lens that can act as night vision device. The lens has a thin strip of graphene between layers of glass that reacts to photons to make dark images look brighter. Current prototypes only absorb 2.3 percent of light, so the percentage of light pickup has to rise before the lens can be viable. The graphene technology can be expanded into other uses like car windshields to increase night driving abilities. The U.S. Army is interested in the technology to potentially replace night vision goggles. Indian Army is using Night vision devices for : short-range surveillance and reconnaissance, night patrolling, vehicle driving, map reading, and acquisition and engagement of target at short ranges. In infrared, there are two wavebands; Mid Wave Infra Red (MWIR, 3-5m) and Low Wave Infra Red (LWIR, 8-12m) which are being used in making thermal imagers. There is a new window which is coming, the Short Wave Infra Red (SWIR, 1-3m) and is becoming popular. Thermal Imagers (Cooled and Uncooled). They are used for target acquisition and engagement at long ranges and for missile guidance and warning.

Some of the thermal sights that have been developed at IRDE in the last decade are

Commanders Thermal Imaging sight cum Day sight for T-72 and MK-IMedium range thermal imager for UAVElectro-optical fire control system (EOFCS) for India NavyThermal imager for Nag missile carrier

Some of the uncooled thermal imagers developed at IRDE are

Helmet Mounted Thermal Imaging Camera (HMTIC): Range = 50m with field of view 50x37Driver Night Sight: Range = 150m for tanks with field of view 45x34Dual FOV Weapon sight for MMG: Range = 1.5km with Near FOV 5x4 and Weapon FOV10x8Weapon night sight: Range = 500m with field of view 8x6

There are two types of Electro-Optical payloads for UAV.

Medium Range EO Payload (MREO). The range of the thermal imager is 7.5km and it has a Laser Ranger cum Designator.Long Range EO Payload (LREO). The range of the thermal imager is 40km. It has also been deployed as Aerostat EO Payloads.

These payloads are also going to be used for border surveillance and there have been negotiations with the army over deploying them in the next three-four years.

Wars that involve 24X7 operations require equipment with sound ergonomics that prevents fatigue among the crew. Transparency of battlefield necessitates countermeasures against the collective array of night vision devices available with the enemy.While the focus on individual platforms is important, there is a need to give more importance to developing collective tactical level capability.The Indian tank fleet is partially night enabled with all new acquisitions like the T-90s and the Arjuns being night capable but the older T-72s and BMPs are not. The industry should giveattention to retrofitting these systems on to the older platforms in an appropriate way.

While conventional wars can still be sustained with partial night blindness, when it comes to CI ops in order to minimize collateral damage precision firing in bad weather and at night is very important.Conventional and sub-conventional operations require operations by agile, responsive and networked infantry units in small teams that are night enabled. The device needs to be seamlessly integrated with the weapon and provide increased accuracy, lethality and standoff capability of weapon delivery system. Night devices for Surveillance and target acquisition should match the effective ranges of the weapons.The basic character of infantry has to be retained while incorporatingtechnology. Diverse sensors should provide all weather capability and gap-free surveillance of areas of interest. UAVs should be used extensively and integrated with Unmanned Ground Sensors. Military robots needed for enhanced and effective surveillance tasks.The soldier should have capability to access the enhanced ISR inputs by night.

The desired attributes for induction of new equipment are:High sensitivity & resolution and low power consumptionEquipment should be versatile while at the same time maintaining standardisation across types.Ruggedness and survivability in the battlefield environment and should not degrade over prolonged use.Power pack should have multi utility capability and longer durabilityReal time transfer of imagery in the desired resolutionUser friendly display at both ends at the weapon sight and terminal view point end in the form of computer, handheld or smart phones.Mission Reliability to ensure high availability and reliable back end supportShould have associated field testing and minor repair equipmentModular Design to enable easy replacement and quick repairFitment &upgrade possible in situ by the user.Reduction in size, weight and cost with improved DRI ranges.Tech threshold of AFV crew needs to be raised for optimized handling of high-tech equipment.Realistic Training in line with technology incorporations.Simulators and other tools/equipment for practice given the high technological sophistication. Training for fitment and maintenance too.Sustenance extended in service life in the army.Smooth transition to superior technology. It should merge with existing technologyCompetitive price for procurement in large quantities, while not compromising on the operational requirements.

AIR OPERATIONS BY NIGHT

Night gives us greater protection while executing a raid or being at the receiving end of a raid. Night vision brings in great asymmetry .Our night vision enhancement is based on Image Intensifier tube technology and Infra red imaging. Modern helmets have projection capability on their visors which is selectable by the pilot donning them. NVGs have made their appearance on certain aircraft, notably the A-10s.

NVGs cannot see thru smoke while IR sensors can; on the other hand IR sensors cannot see through glass while image intensifiers can and obviously, image intensifiers cannot see in the absence of light while IR sensors can. So, technology has been used to mix the two to form the ENVG or the Enhanced NVG. Overlays of the two for piloting have been experimented with; however, there are yet no operational systems for aircrew. High resolution night vision systems with better FOV, processingand visualizations are being developed the world over. Synthetic Vision. Synthetic Vision would combine world wide data bases of terrain and airport facilities, precise navigation information, traffic information and tactical hazards and produce real time synthetic vision tactical display with guidance. It can also be employed by the UAVs. This passive system would be immune to being blinded, spoofed, or detected jam proof and allow stealthier yet safer operation globally. It would allow realistic pre-mission simulation of flight to and from target and a potential windowless-cockpit flight capability to afford crew laser protection. Modern developments aim to utilise a greater part of the EM spectrum. New materials that couldrelease near infra red light over prolonged periods would help in navigation and target designation functions. Fusing of the three optical sensors the visible range, long-wave infrared and short-wave infrared (SWIR) would radically alter the employment of night vision goggles.

Helicopter is the basic unit for army operations by night that can operate from unprepared surfaces and can perform multiple roles including delivery of firepower from the air. It can also be employed as an electronic warfare platform or as a surveillance platform or as an airborne command post. While the modes of operating any flying machine remains unchanged by day or night, the standard of preparation both in air and on ground and standard of equipping them is different.To meet basic operations by night, helicopters must meet these requirements:

Night goggles with image intensifier technology which allows maximum image clarity under all flight conditions even in low light and overcast conditions. It is very difficult to perceive depth through NVGs. Cabin and instrument lighting, helipad lighting and landing light should be compatible to NVG system.

Visual acquisition of target by night would be almost impossible. Arrays of sensors to be able to navigate, identify, acquire and engage enemy targets and be able to meet flight safety requirements.These would include Forward Looking IR radar, digitised moving map display coupled with GPS locations, threat zones and obstructions. The system architecture should include an automatic flying control system, digitised terrain avoidance warning system, ground proximity warning system and obstacle avoidance system and wire cutters. Tactical systems such as Identifying Friends or Foe (IFF) would reduce risks of engagement by friendly fire and protective suites including Infra Red Suppressors and IR Jammers and flare and chaff dispensers would protect against missile attacks.In case landing has to be carried in a battle field, it must carry the IR landing light and even troops on ground should have such lights. For operating at lowaltitudes in dusty conditions, it is desirable for the helicopter to have particle separators.

System architecture for display of. Systems such as Head Up Displays (HUDs) of flight data and data captured by the sensors could contribute towards reducing pilot work load allowing him to concentrate on the situation outside the helicopter without compromising on the flight safety.

Suitable man machine interface should be capable of converting degraded visual environment by day and night into clear images in day light or night.

Use of night vision equipment requires intensive training. Night flying over sea can cause disorientation due to the lack of reference points. The medical aspects also get aggravated in case of night flying over sea.Weather vagaries add on to the difficulty.Landings and take offs on the unstable platform with limited recovery and landing aids is difficult. Chances of having an accident by night are definitely higher than during the day and an accident at night is twice as likely to be fatal, as compared to a daytime accident.The way to overcome these is through instrumentation and equipment and training of which instrument flying is particularly important. Night missions for naval fighter and helicopters involve Air Defence or Strikes, Anti Submarine Warfare (ASW) Dunking and Night SAR. Additional equipment and capabilities are assisting in takeoffs and landings and undertaking of mission by night. These include Electro Optic and Infrared Sighting systems, NVGs, HUD, automatic flight control, stability augmentation systems, inertial navigation systems and radars in the aircraft. The naval Seaking and ALH helicopters have GEN 2++ NVGs while trials are being conducted for Gen3 Goggles. Microwave landing system and NVG compatible landing aids on the ship improve safety of night deck operations. All ships are going to be modified with it.All new acquisitions are equipped with night flying capability catering to NVG Ops. All pilots are being trained in NVG Ops. Some Cheetahs and MI-17s have been modified for NVG operations.Some other older helicopters are not NVG compatible.

Pakistan has an Institute of Optronics headed by a Lt Gen that claims to be producing a number of night vision devices that are even being exported. Pakistan has gained from the global war on terror as its Special Forces have been provided American 3rd and 4th generation NVDs.Pakistan Army Aviation has started using helmet mounted night vision goggles. PAF are using NVGs in night flying.Pakistan has made tremendous strides in using NVGs and is now ahead of us. We have a lot of catching up to do.

Chinese night fight capability is their area of strengths as they drill extensively by night. Thermo Goggles are standard gear. They have the advantage of domestic industry contributing to this equipment. With increased transparency of the battlefield advocacy and training aspects need to be prioritized with more courses being conducted towards awareness. Command and control systems are prime targets in the modern warfare. They are easy to detect and proliferation of anti radiation missiles (ARMs) make them an easy target. Camouflage and concealment of electronic radiation needs to be taken up as part of the camouflage policy. Deception measures also need to be developed along with the denial ones. This is especially true for the cyber domain.The ability of using false images and dummies is very critical. Pakistan has invested in a number of UAVs that can masquerade as air strikes. Perimeter protection is one of the key requirements of any security solution. The 4 Ds of perimeter security are: deter, detect, delay and deny. Intelligence Video Systems (IVS) have the capability now, during the day time and at night, to take care of the 4Ds. Thermal imaging provides a consistent image 24 hours per day completely independent of lighting conditions. It penetrates smoke and dust and has better performance in adverse weather. They can be seamlessly added to any networked security system. Thermal Cameras with analytics capabilities provide much better detection and response system.

EW DELHI, India, March 29, 2012 ITT Exelis (NYSE: XLS) and Tata Advanced Systems Limited have formed a strategic alliance to support Generation (Gen) 3 night vision requirements in India. Under a memorandum of understanding, Exelis and Tata Advanced Systems will partner to supply manufacturing capabilities in India, maintenance and life-cycle support for Gen 3 night vision products. To start with, Exelis will provide TASL with the latest Gen 3 night vision image intensifier tubes, kits and other materials required to build night vision devices in India, to expedite the delivery of the systems to customers in India. This will be followed by manufacture of high precision components and sub-assemblies of the devices by Tata Advanced Systems.This is an important alliance for Exelis and Tata Advanced Systems. It allows us to increase our international footprint and provides our allies with the superior products they need to be successful during night missions, said Nick Bobay, vice president and general manager of the night vision business area at ITT Exelis. We look forward to a strong and healthy partnership with Tata Advanced Systems to meet the growing needs of Indian customers.The alliance with Exelis is an important step in Tata Advanced Systems strategy to enhance the capabilities of the Indian Armed Forces by bringing to India cutting edge technology and undertaking their manufacturing in India. We are tremendously excited by the potential of the partnership with Exelis said Vijay Malik, General Manager (Defence and Security) at TASL. Tata Advanced Systems has set up world class production facilities in collaboration with some of the largest global technology companies to build capability in India, and we aim to replicate the same with Exelis to provide cutting edge night vision solutions to our Defence, Paramilitary and Police forces in the coming years. The signing ceremony took place on Thursday, March 29 at Defexpo 2012 in Pragati Maidan, New Delhi, India.About ITT Exelis:

IntroductionLike many creatures on this planet, we rely strongly on our eyes to interact with our surroundings. Yet, our vision pales in comparison to those of many other species. Among the animals that use their sight for survival, falcons have sharper vision, bees see more colors, and cats excel in the dark. What we lack physically, however, is often compensated through our ability to engineer enhancements to the human body equal to and sometimes exceeding what is available in nature.

DefenseLink/U.S. Department of DefenseFigure 1: A US Navy soldier uses the latest generation Night Vision Device (NVD) mounted to his headgear. NVD's provide a crucial tactical advantage during warfare.Among these advancements are the night vision devices (NVDs) that have allowed humans to easily blend into and exploit an environment that was once only accessed through the use of flashlights and flood lamps. Whether in goggle or binocular form, these devices have given a significant edge to humans, first in military combat and more recently in surveillance, security, and rescue operations (see Fig. 1). As NVDs continue to be modified and improved, they have even found applications in ocular surgeries and are currently being explored for use in automobiles and pedestrian detection.A Focus on the HistoryBefore becoming such a widely-used technology, NVDs were originally the military's answer to night combat. In World War I, large, power-guzzling search lights were used to dispel the night, illuminating both enemies and allies, which could often be counter-productive. By World War II, the first crude NVDs, dubbed Generation 0, were developed using lamps with filters that only passed infrared light. Since infrared is invisible to the human eye, soldiers could easily carry and use image converter tubes that changed the infrared light into the visible spectrum and allowed only the users to see in the desired areas [1]. However, this was still an active form of illumination that could be exploited by both sides of the battle and was thus used sparingly.It was not until the Vietnam War that passive NVDs were developed and widely used. These devices were considered passive because they did not require an external source of infrared illumination but could, instead, amplify any reflected light (both infrared and visible light) from sources like the moon and the stars [2]. The new technology was labeled Generation I and was significantly more effective in terms of covertness in warfare. However, the dependence of Generation I on ambient light was still problematic on moonless or cloudy nights. Through the late 1900s, this issue was addressed and resolved in Generations II and III, both of which focused on magnifying very small amounts of light using an image intensifier tube (instead of an image converter tube) and reliably producing images in higher resolutions. These improved NVDs are still in use today in both military and civilian applications.Illuminating the Process

Patxi Aguado/Wikimedia CommonsFigure 2: A night vision image of soldiers raiding the home of a terrorist suspect in Fallujah, Iraq. The green hues come from phosphors that react with electrons coming from the microchannel plate.Current NVDs consist of five main components in the image intensifier tube: a photocathode, a microchannel plate (MCP), a phosphor screen, and two ocular lenses for collecting, magnifying, and focusing the images. The first lens captures both visible light and infrared radiation. The photons of light hit the photocathode, which absorbs the energy of the photons and emits electrons with a corresponding energy. These electrons then collide with the MCP which, through cascaded secondary emission, releases thousands of other electrons at the same energy. Cascaded secondary emission occurs when the original electrons collide with the side of the channels and excite the atoms along the wall. These excited atoms then release their own electrons, which repeat the process and go on to excite other atoms. The microchannels are actually angled five to eight degrees to encourage the necessary collisions [3].After passing through the MCP, the greatly multiplied electrons finally collide with a phosphor screen placed at the end of the image intensifier tube. The phosphors are energized by the electrons and release photons to create the brightened and magnified image through the last lens on the way to the human eye. Most often, green phosphors are used because humans can differentiate the most shades of green, which results in more discernible detail (see Fig. 2).Lighting the WayThese ghostly images continue to be practical for a variety of purposes. For the military, NVDs have consistently been modified and specialized for use ranging from covert ground operations to aviation, successfully creating stronger, smaller, lighter, and more versatile devices for our soldiers. For flight applications, NVDs also had to be adapted to mount on the special headgear required of pilots while taking into consideration their field of view. Other considerations were their ability to transition from relative darkness to brighter areas when flying over cities and towns, and the effect of the goggles on night reading of important maps and charts without refocusing the lenses [1]. One such device that was able to answer the military's needs is the AN/AVS-6 Aviator's Night Vision Imaging System (ANVIS). This light-weight, third generation model runs on AA batteries and is able to increase peripheral vision and even incorporate a display for digital maps and programmable flight information, including speed, direction, and altitude of the plane [1].With its successful incorporation into military flight, civilian pilots in rescue operations who often fly through darkness and foul weather to reach their targets began using NVDs during their missions. These relatively small additions to the flight equipment require a few hours of training and produce potentially dramatic results, allowing medical pilots to spot their future patients in the dark as well as reducing the potential for medical helicopter crashes in already dangerous situations. This technology is estimated to already exist in 25% of the medical rescue helicopters in the United States with more seeking to incorporate the ANVIS NVDs into their programs [4].Inevitably, this technology has even made its way to luxury automobiles, with many companies combining technologies to create night vision screens, infrared high beams, and even pedestrian-tracking capabilities [5]. These new enhancements can extend the visibility of drivers at night, and during fog and rain, to over 300 meters, which is comforting considering the 50 meters currently provided by regular headlights. It takes approximately 110 meters to completely stop from a speed of about 100 km/hr. The numbers are clearly working against night-time drivers, but with the incorporation of NVDs, this disadvantage is greatly decreased [6].

jurvetson/FlickrFigure 3: Lexus utilizes active night vision via infrared-emitting lights to produce an image in its head-up display.Costing an additional $3000 to consumers, these systems use active NVDs with infrared-emitting light bulbs near the headlights to illuminate the road ahead (see Fig. 3). Since the human eye cannot see infrared light, the bulbs can be pointed straight ahead, giving drivers with the right image converters a lit-up, albeit greenish, view of the road.However, just as with any new technology, the addition of NVDs to civilian vehicles still needs to undergo extensive research and testing. Engineers will need to ensure that the additional screens do not become just another distraction that could take the attention of the driver off the road during a precarious moment. They will also need to avoid creating a false sense of security, causing drivers to relax their attention and even speed up, believing in the infallibility of NVDs. Even experienced emergency pilots require training before flying with such a system, so it is understandable that there may be some reservation in selling such a product with only an additional manual to read. However, with careful and responsible use, NVDs could reduce casualties in many different situations as well as have dramatic effects on how we view and interact with our environment.A Bright FutureNVDs have proved to be extremely versatile in the current day and have brought maneuvering in combat, flight, and driving to a new level of safety and security. Where we once forged ahead blindly into the night, now both our armed forces and civilians alike are experiencing the ability of engineering to continue to bring light to the darkness and to exceed the physical limits of the human body. As new applications for NVDs continue to be found, research for this area thrives, pointing towards future advancements such as panoramic and color night vision goggles. We have much to look forward to in the field of night vision devices.

Night Vision LimitationsHelicopter dust impairsI2-based night vision goggles(click to view larger)As former General McCaffrey said, night vision provides a significant advantage to US troops in the field. However, with benefits come risks. Some of the risks include accidents caused as a result of poor device design or inadequate training. For example, night vision devices cause problems with soldiers depth perception, peripheral vision, and color-based vision. The I2 technology used in night vision devices can increase distortion of light and limit the soldiers field of vision. In addition, the technology does not work in no light environments. The visual clearness provided by I2 technology rapidly diminishes for objects over 400 feet away, particularly if they are moving quickly. Also, weather can significantly diminish the functioning of night vision equipment. Rain, clouds, mist, dust, smoke, and fog all affect performance. For example, if a helicopter lands in a dusty area, the dust blown up by the rotors can make I2-based night vision systems virtually useless. Also, a bright moon can significantly degrade performance; it is the equivalent of looking at the sun with the naked eye.While IR technology can be used effectively in no light environments, it too has limitations that could lead to accidents in the field. For instance, IR technology cannot be used to identify precise details of remote objects, particular if they have similar heat footprints. In addition, IR technology cannot distinguish facial features. Although IR technology is better at seeing through rain and fog, it has problems distinguishing objects that have been cooled by rain, such as runways. Also, high humidity impairs the ability of IR devices to distinguish heat signatures. The Way AheadOne solution to the shortcomings of the I2 and IR technologies is to combine them in one system. This is the approach taken by the Generation III+ night vision devices discussed above. When it is raining or foggy, the soldier can switch from I2 to IR technology. When facial features need to be seen, the soldier can switch back.In addition, by digitizing the images, night vision goggles would not only enable the fusion of I2 and IR technologies, but also allow those images to be sent via a communication link to other soldiers as well as back to the command post.Going digital does come at a price. Just as earlier versions of digital electronics, such as the cell phone, were larger, heavier and more power hungry than their analog counterparts, so the new digital night vision devices that fuse I2 and IR capabilities electronically. Further development will needed so that these devices do not become a burden, instead of an aid, to the soldier in the field.All in all, the benefits of night vision technology far outweigh the problems and give US forces a vital advantage in close quarters combat.Contracts and Key EventsA broad range of contracts have been issued by the US military for night vision devices over the years. Below is a list of the major contracts issued since 2004. Note that orders for PAS-13 thermal weapon sights are covered in full elsewhere, as they are properly weapon scopes.FY 2011 2012AN/AVS-6 NVGs(click to view full)Sept 19/12: In September 2012, the The US Army Contracting Command in Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD issues a pair of contracts for Enhanced 3rd Generation Aviators Night Vision Imaging Systems. Army systems are focused on systems for helicopter pilots, and the $200 million firm-fixed-price contract is a multiple-award vehicle, which means that the 2 winners will compete for each task order from the date of issue to Sept 3/17.The firms involved have since confirmed to DID that this contract covers the AN/AVS-6, which can be mounted to a variety of aviator helmets, including the SPH-4B, HGU-56P, and Alpha. The bid was solicited through the Internet, with 3 bids received, but just 2 winners: L-3 Communications Corp. in Tempe, AZ (W91CRB-12-D-0014) [ex-ITT] Exelis Inc. in Roanoke, VA (W91CRB-12-D-0015).Sept 30/11: FLIR Boston Systems, Inc. in North Billerica, MA receives an $18.1 million firm-fixed-price, indefinite-delivery/ indefinite-quantity contract for the clip-on night vision device, thermal, short-range, and accessories in support of U.S. Special Operations Command. $420,920 will be obligated at time of contract award. Work will be performed in North Billerica, MA, and is expected to be complete by September 2016. This contract was competitively procured via the Navy Electronic Commerce Online website, with 9 offers received by the US Naval Surface Warfare Center, Crane Division in Crane, IN (N00164-11-D-JN68).Sept 30/11: FLIR Government Systems Pittsburgh, Inc. in Freeport, PA receives a $30.1 million firm-fixed-price, indefinite-delivery/ indefinite-quantity contract for the clip-on night vision device, image intensified, and accessories in support of U.S. Special Operations Command. $65,100 will be obligated at time of award. Work will be performed in Freeport, PA, and is expected to be completed by September 2016. This contract was competitively procured via the Navy Electronic Commerce Online website, with 5 proposals received by the US Naval Surface Warfare Center, Crane Division in Crane, IN (N00164-11-D-JN67).June 13/11: ITT Corp. in Roanoke, VA received a $36.2 million firm-fixed-price, indefinite-delivery/ indefinite-quantity contract for AN/AVS-9 night vision image intensifier sets, for use by USMC and US Navy helicopter pilots. The AN/AVS-9 system is a night vision system consisting of a binocular imaging assembly, a helmet mount, a low profile power pack, a carrying case, and ancillary equipment. Work will be performed in Roanoke, VA, and is expected to be completed by June 2016. $1,719,720 will expire at the end of the current fiscal year, on Sept 30/11. This contract was competitively procured via the Navy Electronic Commerce Online website, with 2 offers received by the US Naval Surface Warfare Center in Crane, IN (N00164-11-D-JQ00). April 13/11: L-3 in Garland, TX receives $7 million firm-fixed-price indefinite-delivery/ indefinite-quantity contract for 2,588 Enhanced Third Generation Image Intensification Ground Night Vision Imaging Systems. Work will be performed in Garland, TX, with an estimated completion date of May 22/14. Two bids were solicited with 2 bids received by U.S. Army Contracting Command at Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD (W91CRB-11-D-0083).Dec 16/10: All Native Service Co. in Bellevue, NB received a $22.7 million cost-plus-fixed-fee contract for technology advancement support services to the Night Vision and Electronic Sensors Directorate at Fort Belvoir, VA. This effort provides the Army and Department of Defense with technology solutions for night vision and electronic sensors and sensor suites for target acquisition, engagement and defeat of enemy forces day or night, and under all battlefield and weather conditions. Work will be performed at Fort Belvoir, VA (23%); Yuma Proving Grounds, AZ (11%); Fort AP Hill, VA (11%); Eglin Air Force Base, FL (11%); Fort Hunter Liggett, CA (11%); Jefferson Proving Grounds, IN (11%); White Sands, NM (11%); and Aberdeen, MD (11%). Work is expected to be completed by December 2011. The contract was not competitively procured by the US Naval Surface Warfare Center in Indian Head, MD (N00174-11-D-0006).Oct 20/10: EOIR Technologies announces that it received a $245 million contract from the US Armys Night Vision and Electronic Sensors Directorate to provide engineering support and technology assistance. The contract supports research, development, experiments, engineering, prototyping, and field support to develop quick reaction war support services and material related to the directorates efforts at Fort Belvoir and Fort AP Hill, Quick Reaction Programs, Overseas Contingency Operations, as well as operations in Iraq and Afghanistan.FY 2008 2010

PM SMS: ENVGclick to play videoAug 12/10: ITT Corp. in Roanoke, VA wins a $260.5 million firm-fixed-price contract for 220 enhanced night vision goggles test articles, and associated contracts date requirement lists. Work will be performed in Roanoke, VA, with an estimated completion date of Aug 9/13. Bids were solicited on the web with 6 bids received by the US ARDEC Contracting Center at Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD (W91CRB-10-C-0177). The USAs ENVG, or AN/PSQ-20, is the first helmet-mounted night vision monocular to combine the strengths of both image intensification (I2) and infrared (IR, or thermal) technologies into one device. ITT competed in the second ENVG follow-on proposal with an updated version that it calls the Spiral Enhanced Night Vision Goggle (SENVG) that incorporates the 18 mm image intensifier tube, utilizes several qualified ENVG subassemblies, and is powered by 3 AA batteries/. It also adds a digital upgrade capability that will allow the goggle to export fused imagery for transmission via battlefield networks.In 2005, ITT was one of the firms awarded the initial ENVG contract, with the U.S. Army beginning fielding of the units in April 2008. As of August 2010, ITT has provided over 2,400 ENVG systems to the U.S. Army, with another 6,500 to be delivered on the current contract. See also ITT releaseAug 12/10: DRS Systems, Inc. in Parsippany, NJ receives a $255.3 million firm-fixed-price contract for 220 enhanced night vision goggles test articles, and associated contracts date requirement lists. Work will be performed in Roanoke, VA, with an estimated completion date of Aug 9/13. Bids were solicited on the web with 6 bids received by the US ARDEC Contracting Center at Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD (W91CRB-10-C-0178). Aug 12/10: L-3 Insight Technology, Inc. in Londonderry, NH wins a $255.3 million firm-fixed-price contract for 220 enhanced night vision goggles test articles, and associated contracts date requirement lists. Work will be performed in Roanoke, VA, with an estimated completion date of Aug 10/13. Bids were solicited on the web with 6 bids received by the US ARDEC Contracting Center at Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD (W91CRB-10-C-0179).April 15/10: L-3 Communications completes its acquisition of Insight Technology in Londonderry, NH. Insight develops and manufactures night vision and electro-optical devices, including laser aiming and illumination devices, laser rangefinders, laser markers and designators, night vision goggles and monoculars, and thermal imaging systems. Insight employs approximately 1,100 people and has $290 million in annual sales. L-3 said that the purchase price represents 9 times Insights estimated 2010 EBITDA (see Feb 19/10 entry). L-3 expects the acquisition to add $200 million to its sales. The company will be renamed L-3 Insight Technology. Terms were not disclosed. April 5/10 The DoDs Joint Improvised Explosives Device Defeat Organization (JIEDDO) issued a broad agency announcement asking for industry proposals on ways to integrate night vision devices into explosive ordinance disposal (EOD) bomb suits for use in Iraq and Afghanistan. According to JIEDDO, the face shields on the EOD bomb suit helmets currently do not allow for the use of night vision devices, such as the PVS-7 and PVS-14. Proposals are due June 4/10.March 30/10: L-3 Communications EOS Division in Garland, TX received a 2-year, $30 million indefinite-delivery/ indefinite-quantity contract for the purchase of MX 10160 image intensifier assemblies in support of US Special Operations Command Headquarters Procurement Division. The work will be performed in Tempe, AZ and is expected to be complete in 2012 (H92222-10-D-0012).March 1/10: Insight Technology in Londonderry, NH received a $34.1 million firm-fixed-price contract for the Fusion Goggle System Version 4 (FGS V4) from the US Special Operations Command (USSOCOM). The command requires the FGS V4 for special operations force elements currently engaged in the overseas contingency operations. The application for this item is combined thermal imaging and image intensification. Work will be performed in Londonderry and is expected to be completed by March 2015. The Naval Surface Warfare Center Crane Division in Indiana manages the contract (N00164-10-D-JQ58).Feb 22/10: The US State Department announces that on Feb 4/10 it lifted a 3-year export debarment imposed on ITT for export rule violations regarding its night vision systems. In March 2007, ITT plead guilty to violating the US Arms Export Control Act when the company released technical information to China, Singapore and the United Kingdom for night vision systems without proper export licenses. In December 2007, ITT agreed to pay penalties and institute remedial compliance measures to address its lax export control compliance. Under the debarment, the State Department restricted certain exports of night vision equipment and technical data to specific countries.According to the Feb 22/10 Federal Register announcement:The Department of State has reviewed the circumstances and consulted with other appropriate U.S. agencies, and has determined that ITT Corporation has taken appropriate steps to address the causes of the violations and to mitigate any law enforcement concerns.In response, ITT said in a statement:ITT has spent a tremendous amount of effort, time and resources to ensure that its export compliance program is effective and fully compliant with government law and regulations. The reinstatement of export privileges reinforces our commitment to ensure that we are following both the letter and intent of all U.S. laws and regulations. Feb 19/10: L-3 Communications announces that it agreed to acquire Insight Technology in Londonderry, NH, for an undisclosed consideration. Insight develops and manufactures night vision and electro-optical devices, including laser aiming and illumination devices, laser rangefinders, laser markers and designators, night vision goggles and monoculars, and thermal imaging systems. Insight employs approximately 1,100 people and has $290 million in annual sales. L-3 said that the purchase price represents 9 times Insights estimated 2010 EBITDA. It expects to complete the acquisition in the second quarter of 2010.Feb 8/10: Irvine Sensors in Costa Mesa, CA announces a subcontract worth up to $18 million to supply clip-on thermal imagers (COTI) to Optics 1 under a $37.8 million COTI contract awarded by the Naval Surface Warfare Center of Crane, IN (see Jan 20/10 entry).Irvine Sensors and Optics 1 jointly developed the COTI technology. The COTI has been designed to clip onto existing military night vision goggles and provide users with thermal images to complement the amplified low-light images that the goggles currently provide. There are about 1 million night vision goggles in US military inventories that could potentially be retrofitted with the COTI system, according to Irvine Sensors.Jan 20/10: Optics 1 in Manchester, NH won a $37.8 million firm-fixed-price, indefinite-delivery/ indefinite-quantity contract for a minimum of 10 and a maximum of 6,600 Clip on Thermal Imager (COTI) systems, repairs, spares and associated data. The COTI clips onto the AN/PVS-15A night vision goggle to give special operation forces an optically fused device providing a thermal image into either the right or left side of the PVS-15A goggle. Optics 1 will perform the work in Manchester, NH, and expects to complete it by January 2015. This contract was competitively procured via FedBizOpps with 2 offers received by the Naval Surface Warfare Center in Crane, IN (N00164-10-D-JQ48).Jan 12/10: ITT Night Vision Division in Roanoke, VA received a $7.4 million firm-fixed-price contract for various night vision equipment for the Canadian military. ITT will perform the work in Roanoke, VA, with an estimated completion date of Dec 31/10. CECOM Acquisition Center at Fort Monmouth, NJ manages the contract (W15P7T-10-C-D214).Oct 16/09: ITT Corp. received a $72 million indefinite-delivery/ indefinite quantity (IDIQ) contract for its aviators night vision goggles (AN/AVS-6), night vision tubes and spare parts. The company competitively won 100% of the contract awarded by the US Army Research Development and Engineering Command. With this most recent award, ITT said it remains the sole supplier of aviation goggles and tubes to the US Army.Oct 16/09: ITT Corp. received a $19.3 million delivery order from the US Armys Research Development & Engineering Command Acquisition Center under the OMNI VII contract (see Sept 15/05 item) for AN/PVS-14 night vision monocular devices 80% of these goggles are destined for the US Air Force with the remaining quantities for the US Navy and US Army.The AN/PVS-14 is a night vision monocular that provides enhanced resolution for mobility and target identification. For use by ground forces, these devices can be hand-held, head- or weapon-mounted or fitted to a camera. The AN/PVS-14 operates on a single AA battery and comes equipped with ITTs thin-filmed proprietary Generation 3 Pinnacle image intensifier tube that has the ability to detect available light more than 10 times the power of previous generations.Aug 12/09: ITT Corp. received $43 million in follow-on orders for Enhanced Night Vision Goggles (ENVG) and associated spare parts from the US Armys Research, Development and Engineering Command Acquisition Center at Aberdeen Proving Ground in MD. The original contract (W91CRB-05-D-0012), awarded in 2005, has a potential value of $560 million. ITT partnered with Raytheon in developing the ENVG, which combines a number of night vision technologies.The ENVG, or AN/PSQ-20, is the first helmet-mounted night vision monocular to combine the strengths of both image intensification (I2) and infrared (IR, or thermal) technologies into one device, according to ITT. The US Armys first unit equipped with ENVG was introduced in April 2008.Jan 8/09: L3 Electro-Optical Systems (EOS) in Garland, TX won [pdf] a maximum $48.9 million firm-fixed-price, indefinite-delivery/ indefinite-quantity contract for Submersible Binocular Night Vision Systems (SBNVSs). The SBNVSs will be used by US Navy personnel to provide night vision capability. Work will be performed in Garland, TX and is expected to be complete by January 2014. This contract was competitively procured via FedBizOpps, with 4 offers received. The Naval Surface Warfare Center in Crane, IN manages the contract (N00164-09-D-JQ69). Sept 29/08: Small business qualifier Norotos in Santa Ana, CA won a maximum value $15 million firm-fixed-price, indefinite-delivery/ indefinite-quantity contract for ruggedized night vision mounting hardware. The night vision mounting hardware will be procured for surface US Navy operational use with current night vision devices as well as future procurements of night vision devices. The helmet-mounting system will be universal to support AN/PVS-15B binocular, AN/PVS-7C goggle, AN/PVS-18 monocular, and F6015 monocular.Work will be performed in Santa Ana, CA and is expected to be complete by June 2013. Contract funds in the amount of $194,000 will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was competitively procured via FedBizOpps, with 2 offers received by the Naval Surface Warfare Center Crane IN (N00164-08-D-JQ23). Sept 17/08: Science Applications International Corp. in San Diego, CA won a $6.7 million cost-plus-fixed-fee contract. The primary objective of the Advanced Night Vision System program is to develop core technologies for improving night vision capability in urban operations. Work will be performed in San Diego, CA; Elk River, MN; Bull Shoals, AZ; Palo Alto, CA; Watertown, MA; and Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD, with an estimated completion date of March 15/10. Bids were solicited via a Broad Agency Announcement and 3 bids were received by the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency in Arlington, VA (HR0011-08-C-0144).June 18/08: ITT Night Vision in Roanoke, VA received a $6.9 million firm-fixed-price contract for PVS-7D night vision and AN/PVS7 night vision devices. Work will be performed in Roanoke, VA and is expected to be complete by Dec 31/09. For this contract, 1 bid was solicited by the US Armys CECOM Acquisition Center in Fort Monmouth, NJ (W15P7T-08-C-D236).June 9/08: Information Network Systems in Alexandria, VA received a $9.2 million task order (#0030) under a previously awarded firm-fixed-price contract (M67854-02-A-9013) to provide analytical, acquisition, administrative and logistics support for the Program Manager, Optics and Non-lethal Systems, Infantry Weapons Systems, Marine Corps Systems Command. PM ONS develops, demonstrates, procures, fields, and provides life-cycle management support for electro-optical systems, optics tools and test equipment, and non-lethal and force protection (NL/FP) systems to support USMC warfighting forces. This includes all day and night scopes, laser pointers, laser illuminators, thermal weapons sights, night vision enhancement devices, and NL/FP systems. Work will be performed in Stafford, VA and is expected to be complete in June 2009. The Marine Corps System Command in Quantico, VA manages the contract.FY 2004 2007Sept 28/07: ITT Night Vision in Roanoke, VA received a $10.9 million firm-fixed-price contract for procurement of AN/AVS-9 Aviators Night Vision Goggles and associated data. The AN/AVS-9 Aviators Night Vision Goggles are helmet-mounted goggles that will be used on US Navy ships for nighttime flight operations by both aircraft pilots and ship crew members. Work will be performed in Roanoke, VA and is expected to be complete by September 2012. This contract was not competitively procured by the Naval Surface Warfare Center Crane Division, IN (N00164-07-D-8540).Sept 6/07: ITT Night Vision in Roanoke, VA received a maximum $37.1 million fixed-price indefinite-delivery/ indefinite-quantity contract for a maximum of 5,200 submersible monocular night vision systems (US Navy); 2,500 submersible monocular night visions systems (US Coast Guard); 3,000 head-mount face mask assemblies; 7,500 head mounts; 3,000 head straps for personnel armor system for ground troops helmet; 3,000 head straps for modular integrated communications helmet (MICH); 3,000 low profile 3-hole MICH mounting brackets; and associated data. Work will be performed in Roanoke, VA and is expected to be complete by September 2012. Contract funds in the amount of $5.6 million will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was competitively procured by a request for proposals with multiple firms solicited and 1 offer received by the Naval Surface Warfare Center Crane Division, IN (N00164-07-D-8550).July 18/07: Northrop Grummans Litton Systems in Garland, TX received a $74 million indefinite-delivery/ indefinite-quantity letter contract for production and delivery of the AN/PVS-17C miniature night sight, and associated spare and repair parts. The contract provides for a minimum quantity of 100 and a maximum of 10,000 units. Work will be performed in Garland, TX and is expected to be complete in December 2010. This follow-on contract meets an urgent requirement, and was not awarded competitively by the Marine Corps Systems Command in Quantico, VA (M67854-07-C-1011).July 16/07: ITT Night Vision in Roanoke, VA received a maximum $16.6 million firm-fixed-price indefinite-delivery/ indefinite-quantity contract for a maximum of 6,800 18 mm Image Intensifier MX-10160C Tubes. Image Intensifier Assembly 18-mm Microchannel Wafer High Performance Tubes are utilized in night vision goggles. Work will be performed in Roanoke, VA and expected to be complete by July 2012. This contract was competitively procured by a request for proposals with 2 firms solicited and 1 offer received by the Naval Surface Warfare Center Crane Division, IN (N00164-07-D-8543).May 21/07: ITT Corp.s Night Vision Division in Roanoke, VA received a $6 million firm-fixed-price five-year indefinite-delivery/ indefinite-quantity contract for 18 mm Image Intensifier Tubes for use in night vision goggles, night vision weapon sights, night vision binoculars and night vision monoculars. The tubes magnify and enhance existing natural light or laser illumination to allow users to see in the dark. Work will be performed in Roanoke, VA, and is expected to be complete by May 2012. This contract was competitively procured and solicited via the web via FedBizOpps with 1 offer received by the Naval Surface Warfare Center Crane Division, IN (N00164-07-D-8520).April 24/07: DRS technologies subsidiary Night Vision Systems in Allentown, PA received a maximum $139.3 million fixed-price with economic price adjustment contract for night vision equipment on behalf of the US Army, Air Force, and Marine Corps. This is a 5-year contract with 1 base year and 4 one-year options. There were 5 proposals solicited and 4 responded. Date of performance completion is April 19, 2008. Contracting activity is Defense Supply Center Columbus, (DSCC) in Columbus, OH (SPM7AX-07-D-7014).March 21/07: Columbia Research Corp. in Washington, DC received a $6.3 million term task order (M67854-04-A-5167 Task Order 0003) for acquisition, logistics, and administrative support services for the Program Manager Optics & Non-Lethal Systems (ONS), Infantry Weapons Systems office. The ONS program manager develops, demonstrates, procures, fields, and provides life-cycle management support for optics and non-lethal systems to support USMC warfighting forces. This includes all day and night scopes, laser pointers, laser illuminators, thermal weapons sights, night vision enhancement devices, and non-lethal systems. Work will be performed in Quantico, VA (81%); Albany, GA (13%); Camp Lejeune, NC (3%); and Camp Pendleton, CA. (3%). Additionally, to accommodate logistics management and training issues, on-site support at Marine Corps Logistics Base, Albany, GA, and other CONUS locations is required throughout the contract duration to support handling of logistics and training requirements in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and the expected triple increase in assets. .Sept 28/06: Insight Technology in Londonderry, NH, received a $9.7 million firm-fixed price contract modification. This contract action is required to assemble and deliver 145 Block I Panoramic Night Vision Goggles, 1,112 snap-on diaper assemblies, and 16 ANV-126-210 adapter kits. At this time, $7.3 million

These devices include image intensifier tubes, which are protective and generally water-resistant housing and mounting systems.

The Indian Army, having long suffered from deficiencies in night fighting capability, is taking steps to correct this gap in equipping combat vehicles with advanced EO systems. Army chief Gen Deepak Kapoor, was quoted by Frontier India saying: Indian Armys tanks have a night vision capability of 20 percent while Pakistanis have 80 percent and China has 100 percent.Following massive procurement of night vision devices for combat troops,the army is now set to equip its second line tanks with similar capabilities.The armed forces will review their doctrine, capabilities and shortcomings and also identify latest trends and technologies in next few years.

The Armys objective is to equip over 1,600 T-72 tanks that form the backbone of the countrys armored forces, with advanced night fighting capabilities. The Armys case for acquiring 700 TISAS (thermal imaging stand alone systems) and 418 TIFACS (thermal fire control systems) for its T-72 fleet at a cost of around $230 million is in various stages of the procurement process. 300 Israeli TISAS were installed as part of several T-72 upgrade phases, followed by 3,860 image intensifier-based night-vision devices. A huge requirement persists. 310 Russian produced T-90S Main Battle Tanks were also fitted with French Catherine TI cameras.

As a Hand Held Thermal Imager (HHTI) Thales Sophie UF2 is a light weight, fully integrated multi function system allowing the user to detect, recognise, identify and locate targets in day or night. Photo: ThalesThe requirements for the Indian infantry formations are equally stunning. According to Major General RK Arora, editor of Indian Military Review magazine, the Army requires hand held thermal imaging (HHTI) sights integrated with laser range finders, for infantry, armored, air-defense, artillery and engineer regiments. The infantry is also looking for TI sights for medium machine guns and sniper rifles. RFIs for night sights for AK-47 assault rifles and other small arms have also been floated. On the horizon is the Indian Soldier System (INSAS) program,Bharat Electronics Ltd (BEL) is the biggest supplier of night vision equipment to the armed forces. In 2007 the companyhas signed a memoranda of understanding (MoUs) with Elbit Systems Electro Optics ELOP Ltd, for the local production and support of thermal imaging systems. BELrecently supplied 30,600 passive night sights for rifles, rocket launchers and light machine guns, passive night vision binoculars and passive night vision goggles to the Army but the forces remain woefully short and are looking for the latest 3rd generation technology to reduce weight and extend the life of NVDs.Another Israeli company to benefit from the Indian demand is SDS; the company received significant orders for its new lines of I2 weapon sights.For the future, the procurement of new assault rifles and carbines for the Indian Army, replacing the INSAS currently used, will obviously require hundreds of thousands of sights, night vision sights and clip-on viewers, creating a signifiant drive for foreign companies to establish production in the country. The new rifles will also become part of the future infantry weapon system to be fielded by the Indian military and special forces.The Indian military is also embarking on the replacement on the Indian 7.62mm Self Loading Rifle (INSAS), with a modern carbine currently in final evaluation. Through the initial screening process the military has narrowed five suppliers from 40 that approached the Request for Information (RFI) in 2010. Currently in the final phase are the US company Colt, Italian Beretta, Czech weapon manufacturer CZ, Israels IWI and Austrian SIG Sauer. The Indian military plans to buy at least 65,000 weapons directly from the winning manufacturer and follow on with local production of about 115,000 additional rifles to be produced by the Ordnance Factory Board (OFB). Eventually, additional procurement of 120,000 units could be added, with the planned procurement of Close Quarter (CQB)Carbines for military and paramilitary use. The total budget to be allocated for the program is nearly US$1.9 billion, spanned over several years. The new rifle will weigh 3.5 kg, and use two calibers, 5.5645 and 7.6239 cal and will come with a range of accessories, including under barrel grenade launchers, night vision scopes, optical or reflex sights and more.

Recent deals to supply night vision goggles to the Indian and Italian militaries have given executives at ITT Exelis reason for optimism at a time of declining U.S. Defense Department orders.

Like other major Pentagon contractors, Exelis is looking to substantially expand its international sales to offset cutbacks in U.S. military spending. Company officials said the demand for night vision technology around the world is growing. But Exelis future business also depends on changes to export policies that are intended to boost American arms manufacturers overseas sales.

The United States remains the worlds largest buyer of military equipment, but sales of night vision equipment are picking up in Europe and the Middle East, said David Smith, ITT Exelis vice president for night vision business development, based in Roanoke, Va.

The company announced this month that it received a contract from Selex ES to manufacture several hundred i-Aware night vision goggles for the Italian army. Unlike conventional goggles, these connect the soldier to the tactical network. Users can receive and share video and still imagery.

Last year, Exelis formed a joint venture with one of Indias largest military suppliers, Tata Advanced Systems Ltd., of Mumbai, to produce up to a half-million night vision goggles for that nations army.

That venture is making slow and steady progress, Smith said in a recent interview. Everything in India [government procurement] is slow. When a solicitation comes out, you have to temper your expectations.

The company anticipates that the deal with Selex will lead to bigger sales to the Italian and other governments, particularly in Europe, that are downsizing their armies but also are seeking to equip soldiers with more advanced equipment. The network capable goggle is an example of a piece of gear that allows a soldier to do multiple jobs, Smith said. This is a trend worldwide, he said. Governments are emphasizing the need to be able to continue to meet their mission with fewer people. They are looking for technology that allows a small force to do more.

To compete internationally in the night vision market, however, Exelis needs U.S. government help. Exports of advanced military technology are highly controlled under the International Traffic in Army Regulations (ITAR) law. Some countries, when given the choice, prefer to buy equipment outside the ITAR regime, which imposes tight restrictions on access and transfer of technology. We are seeing a lot of [potential buyers] in the international community saying that they don't like being told what they can receive, what level of technology they can buy, Smith said. They are increasingly investing in technologies that are not ITAR restricted, he said. We want a level competitive playing field.

The Obama administration has spearheaded sweeping reforms to the export control regime. But when it comes to sensitive technologies such as night vision, products with the highest levels of performance are not exportable.

The Defense Department is working with industry to smartly review export policies, Smith said.

Exelis biggest customer for night vision systems, the U.S. Army, has dramatically slowed purchases of goggles in recent years as a result of troop drawdowns in Iraq and Afghanistan. Over the past 18 months, the company downsized its workforce in Roanoke by several hundred employees, although it has sought to preserve experienced engineers who will be needed to develop and build the next generation of goggles for the U.S. military.

The newest night vision goggles that the U.S. Army is purchasing are sensor fusion devices that overlay thermal imagery on top of the traditional amber/green display. This is significant, as it allows soldiers to spot adversaries hiding behind dense foliage. The Army calls these enhanced night vision goggles, or ENVG, which can import and export imagery, video and data.

Exelis and L-3 have received Army contracts to produce ENVGs. The program, though, is in a state of flux as the Army determines its future. ENVG has endured growing pains over the past four years. Current analog fusion devices do not pipe data into the soldiers radio, and the Army would like to move to digital versions. Exelis is producing digital ENVGs, but the technology is not advancing as quickly as the Army had predicted.

Smith said additional government funding is needed to move the technology forward. We would like to see more investment from the U.S. government on next generation technology, he said. Everyone has been working on digital night vision for a while, he added. The technology is not where it needs to be. With more investment from the customer, it's possible to accelerate the advancement of digital goggles. Exelis has adapted the analog system and gave it a digital capability to move information around, but the Army ultimately wants a purely digital ENVG. That will require manufacturers to reduce the devices size, weight and power demands.

Companies are investing research-and-development dollars into these technologies, Smith said, but that is not enough, especially in complex systems such as sensor-fusion night vision. Exelis would like to see the government not only increase funding for research but also communicate to industry its future needs so companies know where to invest, Smith said. We would like to see co-investment with industry in advance of their [the Armys] needs, he said. For industry to continue to do this we need a commitment on the part of the customer.

ITT announces Morovision Night Vision as authorized distributor for law enforcement marketROANOKE, Va., July 3, 2008ITT Corporation, the world's leading manufacturer of night vision technology, has named Morovision Night Vision Inc. as its authorized U.S. law enforcement distributor of ITT Night Enforcer productsmost notably the Night Enforcer NEPVS-14 model and associated parts and accessories.The Night Enforcer NEPVS-14, based on the military product AN/PVS-14, is a Generation (Gen) 3 monocular device that allows the user to adjust the gain control in varying light conditions. It is the most widely fielded night vision device for law enforcement. This versatile unit can be handheld, head- or weapon-mounted or adapted to a camera or camcorder. Recently, ITT's Night Vision division announced that all Night Enforcer NEPVS-14 products will come equipped with its proprietary Pinnacle thin-filmed tube technology. This enhanced image intensifying tube improves clarity and resolution, and allows for a more seamless transition when switching from low-light to high-light areas."With today's increased demand for night vision products, we are confident that forming a partnership with a well-known distributor, like Morovision, will allow for an efficient flow of our products to our dealers and, ultimately, our federal and state and local law enforcement customers," said ITT Night Vision President Mike Hayman.Hand-selected, preferred dealers will continue to carry ITT night vision products, like the Night Enforcer NEPVS-14, to serve the law enforcement community. Morovision Night Vision will serve as the authorized distributor that supplies dealers. ITT Night Vision, based in Roanoke, Va., is the world's leading developer, producer and supplier of Gen 3 image intensifier technology for U.S. and allied military forces as well as the homeland security market. To learn more, visit www.nightvision.com. About ITT CorporationITT Corporation (www.itt.com) supplies advanced technology products and services in several growth markets. ITT is a global leader in water and fluid transport, treatment and control technology. The company plays a vital role in international security with communications and electronics products; space surveillance and intelligence systems; and advanced engineering and services. It also serves a number of growing marketsincluding marine, transportation and aerospacewith a wide range of motion and flow control technologies. Headquartered in White Plains, N.Y., the company employs approximately 40,000 people and generated $9 billion in 2006 sales.Safe Harbor StatementCertain material presented herein includes forward-looking statements intended to qualify for the safe harbor from liability established by the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 ("the Act"). These forward-looking statements include statements that describe the Company's business strategy, outlook, objectives, plans, intentions or goals, and any discussion of future operating or financial performance. Whenever used, words such as "anticipate," "estimate," "expect," "project," "intend," "plan," "believe," "target" and other terms of similar meaning are intended to identify such forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are uncertain and to some extent unpredictable, and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in, or implied from, such forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause results to differ materially from those anticipated by the Company include general global economic conditions, decline in consumer spending, interest and foreign currency exchange rate fluctuations, availability of commodities, supplies and raw materials, competition, acquisitions or divestitures, changes in government defense budgets, employment and pension matters, contingencies related to actual or alleged environmental contamination, claims and concerns, intellectual property matters, personal injury claims, governmental investigations, tax obligations, and changes in generally accepted accounting principles. Other factors are more thoroughly set forth in Item 1. Business, Item 1A. Risk Factors, and Item 7. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations - Forward-Looking Statements in the ITT Corporation Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2007, and other of its filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The Company undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.###

Theres a lot of light in the sky on even the darkest nights, but you cant see it. Thats because its in the shortwave infrared (SWIR) frequency band and is invisible to the naked eye, as well as to most current night-vision systems. Yet despite uncertain economic conditions, development work is underway on SWIR-capable night-vision technologies that will help the United States boost its shrinking lead in night vision. Advances in SWIR technology are coming none too soon. For most of the time since World War II, U.S. armed forces rightly have claimed to own the night, a strategic advantage comparable in some ways to the ability to take the high ground. But now, others can claim a piece of the night thanks to their own development efforts and to the wide availability of increasingly sophisticated night-vision products. Most night-vision devices fall into two camps: thermal imagers, which operate in the mid- and long-infrared light wavelengths;

When Navy SEAL snipers killed three pirates off the coast of Somalia during the April 2009 rescue of a kidnapped American cargo ship captain, they took aim with night-vision scopes on their rifles. And in the May 2011 raid on a Pakistani compound where Osama bin Laden was killed, the helicopter pilots, the Navy SEALs who stormed the walled hideout and according to some reports, the combat assault dog that accompanied them were all wearing night-vision goggles on the super secret mission. But night vision capabilities aren't limited to special operations forces. Read more here

Future Night Vision Devices: More Than Just Goggles October 2009 By Grace V. Jean The Army is pushing night-vision technologies into the digital realm. Future night-vision goggles are being designed not just to see better at night but also to allow soldiers to share images of what they see with other soldiers who may be miles away.

Technologists agree that the goal is feasible, but contractors currently working on these next-generation goggles are encountering challenges in meeting the Armys requirements for power, size and weight.

The technical difficulties may delay Army plans to award a production contract next year.

Soldiers currently use traditional night-vision technology, called image intensification. These goggles amplify non-visible particles of light to a level of brightness that the human eye can detect. They also employ infrared thermal sensors, which sense temperature differences. Warmer items appear brighter on a display.

The fusion of both technologies would result in night-vision goggles that merge the strengths of image intensification a clear, sharp green-tinted picture with the advantages of infrared the ability to see practically under any environmental condition. Green is the color that the human eye sees most easily.

The combination of the two systems into a single optical device resulted in what the Army calls an enhanced night vision goggle, or ENVG.

The current ENVG, however, is analog, and does not pipe data into the soldiers radio, as the Army wanted.

Were trying to transition to a digitized version, Army Maj. Theophile Kang, assistant product manager for the ENVG program, tells National Defense. Theres a lot more things you can do with a digitized system that you cant do with an analog system, he says. In cities, for example, streetlights can overwhelm night vision goggles and wash out the image. But if the devices were digital, software could help the system adjust the image, Kang says.

The Army has awarded several contracts for the development of digital ENVGs. It plans to evaluate the designs in July to see how the technologies have matured from the previous test last year.

Soldiers will test the goggles in a variety of environments, including in urban training facilities and on woodland patrols.

You have real soldiers giving you real feedback, says Kang.

The largest provider of night-vision technology to the military, Roanoke, Va.-based ITT Night Vision, manufactures the ENVG for the Army. Engineers there are developing a digital version.

For the digital ENVG, the company has replaced the standard image intensifier tube with a new digital sensor, the MicroChannel Plate Complimentary Metal-Oxide Semiconductor, or MCP-CMOS. The microchannel plate sits inside a vacuum package between the photocathode and the electron-collecting semiconductor array.

Rather than integrating the digital imaging outside of the vacuum, we just integrate it inside the vacuum, says Rudy Benz, director of sensor development. He spoke at an Institute for Defense and Government Advancement night vision conference.

The digital sensor gives better low-light level performance compared to other technologies, says Don Morello, director of government marketing and domestic business development.

At the conference, Benz put up a slide comparing imagery taken with the new digital technology to a still captured by the companys legacy PVS-14 monocular device. The images looked nearly identical.

But going digital does come at a price, as demonstrated by the cell phone and camera industries several years ago. Just as those initial products were larger, heavier and more power hungry than their analog counterparts, so, too, are digital night-vision goggles that fuse thermal and low-light capabilities electronically.

The downside to fusion is the more number of pixels you deal with, the more power you need for processing the data from all those pixels. That starts to drive your power, and power can drive weight and size, says Rajani Cuddapah, senior program manager of electronic solutions at BAE Systems, which is competing for the digital ENVG contract.

A leader in thermal capabilities, the company has leveraged existing low-light level visible technologies to develop its digital prototype, she says. In the upcoming evaluation, BAE Systems is hoping to show advances in size, weight and power, she adds.

Five of ITTs digital ENVG prototypes were tested at Fort Benning, Ga., in late spring, and reports are filtering back to the company.

The devices, in our opinion, still have some more work to be done specifically to reach Armys very aggressive goal of less than two pounds, says Morello. It can be achieved with some work and some more user feedback and some more decisions from the Army.

The Army believes that by 2014, the digital ENVG-D will be ready for production, says Kang. The Armys program executive officer for soldier equipment, Brig. Gen. Peter N. Fuller, says he is confident that contractors can overcome the technical difficulties. But he says he is not surprised by the troubles experienced by ENVG because the technology is such a huge leap from the current systems.

Its a black art to make these new systems, Fuller says in an interview. ITTs earlier manufacturing problems with ENVG tubes were attributed to the use of pure water from the local reservoir, which had more particulates. When youre building something that requires pure water, the particulates were a problem, they were organic matter such as pieces of leaves, things that we wouldnt notice in drinking water, says Fuller. We figured out how to change the filters.

The problem was fixed, he says. Smart people are making it work But there are still challenges that come up.

The optical ENVG contract is being re-competed, with the possibility of awards being given to multiple vendors.

Were trying to expand and go with more than one source, says Kang. Theres more in the industry base and were trying to tap more into that.

A request for proposals is expected this fall.

According to Fuller, the Army estimates that ENVGs will cost $18,000 apiece.