SOLDIERS WILL SOON BEING TESTING INTEGRATED VISUAL AUGMENTATION SYSTEM (IVAS) 1.2
The last decade has brought about a variety of devices and technologies in both the civilian and military space that help humans do more than ever before. IVAS goggles that aim to help Soldiers have yet another advantage on the battlefield. The Integrated Visual Augmentation System (IVAS) provides users with virtual elements in their line of sight mixed with the real world to provide data like never before. Despite a rocky journey, the IVAS Army is becoming a reality.
What Is IVAS?
Microsoft is creating the IVAS for the U.S. Army—an augmented reality (AR) headset aimed at enhancing situational awareness by overlaying sensor imagery and information on the Soldier's field of view. Initially designed for Infantry, adaptations for Mounted Soldiers and Aircrew are underway. Approved by the Army Acquisition Executive on September 25, 2018, IVAS's development began with an Other Transaction Agreement with Microsoft in November 2018. Initial testing commenced in March 2019; however, the system is currently undergoing continued evaluation. Despite facing challenges that led to delays in field deployment, ongoing improvements have been implemented; however, the overall reception of the Army IVAS remains largely unfavorable.
How Does IVAS Work?
IVAS uses the Microsoft HoloLens 2 headset. It is a lightweight device perfect for deploying in a variety of combat scenarios. Attached to the helmet, the computer distributes weight and adjusts the center of mass. Microsoft IVAS helps Soldiers assess situations and targets while engaging, and making better decisions. This is done by a device made up of a display, a "puck" computer, a networked data radio, and three conformal batteries. The system incorporates thermal imaging, low-light imaging sensors, a digital magnetic compass for navigation, and the ability to display imagery from the Soldier's weapon-mounted Family of Weapons Sights-Individual. A radio facilitates data sharing among Soldiers' IVAS headsets within a company. With a 60-degree field of view, the flat display is flip-up capable. Some interesting applications will allow troops to shoot targets otherwise obstructed, use microdrones, and create real-time maps for navigation. The Army Integrated Visual Augmentation System devices also have training tools that project holographic and mixed reality (MR) imagery to train Soldiers in combat via headset.
Good or Bad? Concerns Around the Microsoft-Army Collaboration
In March 2021, testing by the Bradley Fighting Vehicle and Stryker teams took place opening the door to testing for aircrews. However, there were several challenges, along with those already facing Infantry, persisting the Integrated Visual Augmentation System by Microsoft, including bulky cables. This would cause delays and concerns among troops. The Microsoft Integrated Visual Augmentation System issues included the Squad Immersive Virtual Trainer, adding several millions of dollars more to the device's development. With the Integrated Visual Augmentation System (IVAS) Program facing so many issues throughout the years, many believe that the collaboration may not continue to fruition if the Redmond, Washington-based tech giant can’t get it right this time. But the investment so far is notable and the upside for the Army is still intriguing. Both parties remain confident that the new developments are enough to continue the partnership and are optimistic that the technology will begin its final testing phase this year, with Soldiers receiving the devices in 2025.
IVAS Mixed Reality to Become a Reality for Soldiers In 2025
It has taken $22 billion but IVAS is entering what the military and Microsoft believe is the final testing phase. If everything goes according to plan, around 80 devices will be delivered this year with 200 coming in 2025. The IVAS also connects to the existing Tactical Assault Kit (TAK) by Nett Warrior. This kit uses an iPhone 6s and allows users access to apps and the ability to share information. However, this is only the beginning of what the military hopes to achieve. As telecommunications carriers roll out more 5G infrastructure, U.S. defense officials are exploring even more military applications. Network slicing is a key 5G feature ideal for defense purposes. This technology allows the division of a 5G network into subnetworks, enabling designated users at specific security levels. The National Security Agency (NSA) is actively contributing to international standards. Furthermore, they are exploring 5G integration with cloud services for secure communication within the American Armed Forces. How the IVAS fits with these advancements is still not completely realized. Yet, you can expect advanced tactics, communication, and collaboration to be a part of it. Realistically, AR technology could help perform complex medical needs, including surgery, while doctors remain far away from active combat zones.
Update: The 1st Brigade Combat Team Will Soon Start Testing IVAS 1.2
Soldiers in the 1st Brigade Combat Team will soon start testing the latest version of the Army's IVAS. During the testing phase, Soldiers will be running the latest version on the IVAS through a series of tests, which include: comfortability tests, lowlight sensor checks, and how efficiently one is able to run mission planning tasks using the new heads-up display. If the testing and development stage goes to plan, Soldiers can expect to be using the technology as soon as 2025. So far, $22 billion has been put into the program to create this next-level technology. Before Soldiers can get their hands on the new tech, the IVAS will be assessed by squads, platoons, and possibly even battalions. In 2022, the Army ordered around 5,000 IVAS 1.0s and 1.1s from Microsoft. Around 50 of the 1.0 versions will be delivered to Fort Moore, Georgia on September 18th. Right now, it seems that version 1.2 will be the one that Soldiers take to combat. However, many future versions and updates to the technology will occur in the future. In July of this year, Microsoft delivered 20 prototypes of version 1.2 to the Army, despite the program facing a few hurdles and delays due to funding issues. Version 1.2 will allow for better peripheral view, and also fixes the warping of the display. Additional improvements include the device's lowlight sensor and its night vision capabilities. Updated by Lauren Piette Suggested reads: