Air Force to Upgrade Pilot Eyewear with Laser, Ballistic Protection

The devices, developed in partnership with the Air Force Research Laboratory, will also include night eyewear that allow more natural light.

Kimberly Johnson

Monday, November 20, 2023 at 04:56 PM ET

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A B-52 Stratofortress aircrew member participates in a laser eye protection test. Eyewear devices include separate day and night spectacles, ballistics spectacles, and visors designed to integrate with night vision goggles. [Courtesy: U.S. Air Force]

Key Takeaways:

U.S. Air Force pilots will receive new "Block 3 Family" eyewear, featuring enhanced protection and improved visibility.
A primary focus of the upgrade is to provide crucial protection against laser strikes, a significant and increasing threat that has caused 244 reported pilot injuries since 2010.
The eyewear also includes improved night vision capabilities and offers combined laser and ballistic protection tailored for various missions, with over 42,000 devices to be distributed by 2027.

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U.S. Air Force pilots will soon receive upgraded eyewear that includes protection against laser strikes, the Air Force Life Cycle Management Center announced.

The eyewear consists of eight devices, known as the “Block 3 Family,” and also includes separate day and night spectacles, ballistics spectacles, and visors designed to integrate with night vision goggles. The upgrades include night eyewear that increases visibility through lenses that allow more natural light, and a first offering of a combined laser and ballistic protection option, the service said.