ASU lightens night vision goggle

Winkel said that despite improvements over the years, the night vision goggle (NVG) has not really changed. “The aviation NVG in its current form was first developed in the 1980s,” he said. “It’s time that somebody came along, who has aviation experience, and improves it. We feel we bring a lot to the table as operators.”

First, he said, the company designed a new, robust, and lightweight Aeronox mount and battery pack. “Then we launched development of our new E3 goggle and are in final qualification testing. We were able to take more than 200 grams of weight off of the NVG user’s flight helmet, while improving functionality and performance.” The company applied for technical standard order (TSO) approval of the mount and battery pack in December 2018, and plans to submit its TSO application for the E3 during the first half of 2019.

For the past 24 years, ASU has been known globally for selling and servicing NVGs, modifying cockpits for NVG use, and training pilots and crewmembers. The company was a pioneer in the civilian use of NVGs. This is its first foray into manufacturing.

“Most don’t realize that ASU has been conducting imaging and electro-optical research and development for years,” said Dr. Joseph Estrera, chief technology officer. “The introduction of the new E3 affirms that ASU is not solely a value-added reseller but is, in fact, an innovator—and, now, an original equipment manufacturer.”

“We went to basic fundamentals,” Estrera explained. “We looked at all the material, and we went to all metal.” The use of aluminum and titanium allowed reduction in parts count and weight—from 540 grams in a legacy goggle to 400 grams, not counting elimination of a counterweight previously required on the back of the helmet. “We’re getting roughly a 30-percent reduction in weight. We view this as a revolution in the night vision goggle.”

Weight reduction is most important from a pilot’s perspective, said Justin Watlington, ASU director of operations. “There are nights when you might have this system on your head for four to six hours. That reduction in weight is going to result in benefits that have not been quantified.” For example, he said, fatigue will be significantly reduced. Watlington said he’s flown using NVGs for 30 years, and also is an NVG instructor.

With flight testing complete and environmental qualifications nearly finished, ASU is working to have the E3 goggles in production by the third quarter of this year. The company will continue to sell and service existing NVGs, and retains its authorization to repair and service goggles manufactured by L3 and Harris.

To celebrate the release of its new E3 Lightweight Night Vision Goggles, ASU is offering a special rate of $11,995 to customers who preorder the first 100 units. The promotion, valid only for commercial operators and not federal or military organizations, includes the Aeronox mount and battery pack, as well as a one-year warranty.