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Defense Advancement Last updated: December 4th, 2024
Binoculars are devices that allow users to see a magnified image of distant objects with both eyes, providing a 3D image and enabling depth perception. Military binoculars are used by field personnel for a variety of applications, including surveillance, reconnaissance, target spotting, and rangefinding. They are often designed with independent focus mechanisms rather than central focus, as this makes the design less fragile.
Weatherproof & Rugged Binoculars
Military binoculars are typically more rugged than civilian models, and may be engineered to be weatherproof or to survive being dropped in water, sand or mud. They may be equipped with an outer rubberized coating that is non-reflective and provides a non-slip grip, as well as providing some resistance against shock and impact. The coating may also be decorated with camouflage patterns.
Military forces may use several different models of binoculars according to mission needs. Smaller models are highly portable and can be carried in the pockets of infantry personnel, while larger models with greater magnification capabilities may need to be mounted on a tripod.
Additional Features
Reticle, Rangefinder & Infrared Binoculars
Military binoculars may be equipped with a range of additional features for enhanced operation. These may include reticles for distance calculation, laser rangefinders that provide a real-time distance readout, compasses, gyro-stabilization, and a communications interface that provides data output to other devices. Night vision binoculars may also feature infrared technology, either to provide night vision capabilities or to detect thermal signatures.
Naval & Marine Binoculars
Binoculars for naval and marine applications may be specially designed to withstand harsh sea conditions, with extra sealing to stop water ingress as well as being nitrogen-filled to prevent interior fogging. They may be engineered to provide image stability even under highly dynamic conditions caused by the motion of vessels at sea. Marine binoculars may also include a strap with a flotation device to prevent them from sinking if they are dropped into water.
Kopin has partnered with BlueHalo to provide simulated binoculars and monoscopes for Advanced Stinger Trainer (AST) systems, which provides teams with operational and tactical training in a variety of virtual environments against multiple air threats
Safran Electronics & Defense Australasia’s JIM Compact binoculars will improve sniper system surveillance, accuracy and performance in a wide range of environments
L3Harris Technologies has received a new production order for additional Enhanced Night Vision Goggle-Binocular (ENVG-Bs) following the delivery the 10,000th unit to the US Army
HENSOLDT Optronics and THEON SENSORS’ MIKRON binocular night vision googles have two 16 mm residual light amplifier tubes and an integrated infrared illuminator
Elbit Systems’ lightweight helmet-mounted night vision system includes an enhanced battery life and high-performing white phosphor image intensification tubes for improved clarity and depth perception
The consortium of Hensoldt and Theon Sensors will deliver Mikron 16mm Binocular Night Vision Goggles to Belgian and German defense forces under the Night Vision Capability Program
The combat-ready ENVG-B systems from L3Harris-Technologies include a high-resolution display, an embedded soldier wireless personal area network, and augmented reality algorithms to interface with the Army’s Nett Warrior