What is Integrated Visual Augmentation System mean? The Integrated Visual Augmentation System (IVAS) is a United States Army program to provide infantry with a mixed reality headset, which provides a wide variety of capabilities to soldiers including, but not limited to, digital wide-angle multi-spectral imaging with light-amplifying night vision, thermal, and day color optics, object outlining emphasis, 3D map and waypoint overlays, a picture-in picture display of weapons sights, and a Squad Immersive Virtual Trainer that allows them to train against virtual enemies overlaid upon their real-world field of vision.
The concept for IVAS has its origins in the Nomad Augmented Vision System formerly deployed to Stryker brigades, which were monoscopic, monochromatic, and lacked much of the sensor, processing, and data-linking capabilities of IVAS.
As of October 2020 the system is on its third iteration. Previous tests used commercial Microsoft HoloLens 2 headsets which were not resistant to inclement weather. A ruggedized version of the system was tested in late October 2020 at Fort Pickett by some Marines and members of the 82nd Airborne.The test was to get soldier feedback and refine the system for eventual battlefield use.
In December 2020, United States Congress decided to cut $230 million of the $1.1 billion request for Army's IVAS goggles.
After nearly 2 years in development, the final IVAS Capability Set 4 system is scheduled to be fielded in 2021. Over 40,000 sets are to be issued.
On March 26, 2021, Microsoft was awarded a "fixed price production agreement" by the United States Army to manufacture and supply IVAS headsets. Microsoft will produce headsets for at least 120,000 members of the Army Close Combat Force. The contract is worth up to US$21.88 billion dollars.
Also in March 2021, the U.S. Army announced IVAS was testing with mounted soldiers, such as on Bradley Fighting Vehicle and Stryker teams. By June 2021, the US Army announced it was expanding IVAS tests to include aircrews for helicopters and drones. In comparison to the $400,000 purely-slaved and aircraft-dependent F-35 helmet that must be custom-built for each pilot, IVAS attaches to any helmet, is estimated to cost $29,205 per unit, and can optionally work independent of the aircraft when the crew dismounts.
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Posted on 26 Apr 2022, this text provides information on General related to Miscellaneous in General. Please note that while accuracy is prioritized, the data presented might not be entirely correct or up-to-date. This information is offered for general knowledge and informational purposes only, and should not be considered as a substitute for professional advice.