09:09 GMT, December 14, 2011 NEWTOWN, Conn. | Panoramic Night Vision Goggles (PNVG) should be produced in steady numbers over the next several years for the crews of several U.S. aircraft types. According to the Pentagon, extensive operations include takeoffs and landings in total darkness, and there is a need for visual identification of targets during the cover of darkness. The very nature of modern warfare ensures the necessity of night vision systems.

In the U.S. defense budget, night vision goggles are procured under the Night Vision Goggles program. In the FY12 budget, $108.1 million is allocated through FY16 for the purchase of a variety of night vision systems for both U.S. Air Force pilots and ground crews, including the PVS-7 and PVS-14, as well as PNVG.

Deliveries of the PNVG for Special Operations AC-130 and MC-130 aircrews are in progress, and are expected to be followed by deliveries for A-10 and C-17 aircrews. The PNVG has also been tested for use on Sikorsky MH-53 helicopters.


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Andrew Dardine, Defense Electronics
Forecast International