The Army’s helmet-mounted mixed reality device known as the Integrated Visual Augmentation System (IVAS) is a $22 billion program developed with Microsoft since 2018. Maj. John Thomas, assistant program manager for IVAS Development, emphasized the focus on “extensibility” of the device, aiming to control other equipment like soldier-borne sensors and microdrones. Updates for IVAS 1.2 include low-light camera improvements, ergonomic enhancements, and software updates.
Soldiers from the 101st Airborne Division at Fort Campbell, Kentucky, will conduct a user assessment in January, followed by an operational demonstration with the 4th Infantry Division at Fort Carson, Colorado. IVAS sets are in loan to various Army units for testing and training purposes. Once engineering changes are complete and testing is concluded, the Army will award a production contract for IVAS.
Significant design changes have been made to IVAS since its inception, transitioning from a goggle option to a helmet-mounted visor-like version with improved ergonomics. Developers overcame challenges with analog night vision technology to incorporate augmented reality seamlessly. The development team addressed early issues with moisture, dizziness, and display glitches to enhance user experience.
