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 upgraded "Block 3 Family" eyewear primarily designed to protect against laser strikes, a growing threat that has caused 244 reported injuries since 2010.
The new eyewear includes features like enhanced night vision, ballistic protection, and the first combined laser and ballistic protection option, with specific devices tailored to different mission needs.
More than 42,000 of these protective devices will be distributed to most aircrews by 2027, aiming to prevent career-ending injuries and ensure pilot safety.

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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.