The Land Forces Group, Acquisition Div., of MTC Technologies has won task orders to help U.S. Marine Corps engineers and managers integrate sensors on light armored vehicles to collect real-time data that will streamline maintenance. (http:// tinyurl.com/qbqgn) Another contract aims to improve the capabilities of vehicle drivers: The U.S. Army has contracted DRS Technologies to produce Driver Vision Enhancers (DVEs) for a wide range of frontline combat and tactical wheeled vehicles. The DVEs use DRS's low-power uncooled infrared (LPUIR) detector, thermally compensated optics, and an 800 × 600 pixel active matrix LCD panel to let drivers see clearly at increased distances—regardless of light level, adverse weather conditions, and obscurants such as smoke and dust. (http:// tinyurl.com/legg3)
Aircraft protection is the name of the game for new systems that Raytheon's Integrated Defense Systems (IDS) business has delivered to the Air Force. The Aircraft Self Protection Security System (ASPSS) uses near object detection sensor (NODS) technology to provide electronic perimeter security for parked planes. The system consists of four book-size NODSs and communications modules (mounted on tripods and placed around the aircraft), and a PDA-like alarm and display device (carried by security personnel). Four sensors provide overlapping 360° coverage of a single aircraft and can detect people and vehicles to beyond 100 m. Raytheon IDS will soon deliver two other editions: a three-sensor variety and a multiple-aircraft version. The technology also shows promise for fence line, fixed facilities, and commercial applications where cleared zone security is needed. (http://
tinyurl.com/rj33z)