The 82nd Airborne Division of the U.S. Army wears IVAS helmets and participates in the "Project Convergence" test.

(AFP)

[Compilation of Chen Chengliang/Comprehensive Report] American computer technology giant "Microsoft" won a large order from the U.S. Department of Defense to customize augmented reality (AR) helmets last year, and will produce "integrated visual augmentation systems" for the U.S. military ( IVAS), after experiencing difficulties in technology research and development and delays in the schedule, the U.S. Army IVAS is expected to be put into front-line deployment next year, and some officers and soldiers of combat and training units will be allocated to strengthen the troops’ battlefield awareness and improve the efficiency of combat missions.

IVAS is the most breakthrough individual equipment of the US military after the advent of night vision goggles.

The U.S. Army originally signed a nearly US$22 billion (approximately NT$676.1 billion) contract with Microsoft in April last year, planning to purchase a large number of IVAS, but in October it suspended the procurement plan due to technical concerns.

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According to the report of the US "Defense News" weekly (Defense News), the US Army announced that it is expected to deliver 5,000 sets of IVAS version 1.0 to combat and training units first, and then deliver 5,000 sets of IVAS version 1.1 next year.

Based on its smart glasses "HoloLens" mixed reality (MR) technology, Microsoft has created IVAS, which integrates thermal imaging equipment, GPS technology, sensors and high-tech equipment with night vision functions, which can significantly improve soldiers' situational awareness Capabilities, provide key battlefield information, thereby strengthening combat power, and comprehensively changing the combat mode.

In August, the U.S. Army further announced that it had held a field test in Washington State to integrate IVAS with the Stryker armored vehicle, allowing combat officers and soldiers to clearly confirm the situation around the Stryker armored vehicle through the IVAS helmet even if they leave the vehicle, and link the information on the vehicle system to enhance the battlefield awareness of officers and soldiers.

The Microsoft IVAS helmet weighs about 1.1 kilograms. Combined with night vision, thermal imaging, and camera functions, it will provide the US ground forces with a HUD head-up display similar to fighter pilots. At the same time, the commander can also project information on the helmets worn by soldiers, and even Share the vision you see in front of you and enhance your environmental awareness.

One of the important functions of IVAS is to effectively improve the night vision ability of officers and soldiers.

(taken from DVIDS website)