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 are set to receive upgraded "Block 3 Family" eyewear, which includes protection against laser strikes, improved night vision, and ballistic defense.
This upgrade directly addresses a significant surge in laser strike incidents reported by pilots, which have led to injuries and safety concerns.
Over 42,000 of these mission-dependent devices will be distributed to aircrews by 2027, with the exception of U-2 and F-35 pilots.

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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.