Backgrounder

Omnibus Night Vision Capability Project

BG-05.026 - September 15, 2005

The ability to conduct operations at night is critical to a modern air force. In order to accomplish these tasks safely and effectively, advanced night vision equipment is required. The current Omnibus Night Vision Capability Project will assist in this requirement by providing helmet-mounted night vision goggles and night vision aids to all tactical and search and rescue fleets. This project will ensure commonality of night vision equipment, reduce life cycle cost, simplify training and reduce procurement time.

The Air Force currently uses night vision technology in the CH-146 Griffon and CH-149 Cormorant fleets; however, the new night vision goggles and the associated aircraft equipment will enhance operational performance.

The CP-140 Aurora, CC-130 Hercules, and the CC-150 Polaris fleets will benefit from new night vision equipment as a result of the Omnibus Project. The CH-124 Sea King will also gain night vision goggle capability allowing the maritime helicopter community to obtain training that will be directly transferable to the new CH-148 Cyclone helicopter fleet.

The Omnibus Night Vision Capability Project will provide the Air Force with new technology to increase accuracy and minimize risk to aircrews during night operations. The tactical helicopter, fighter and transport aircraft communities require additional night vision equipment to provide assistance while in hostile territory. Night vision equipment will enable downed aircrew to move to a rendezvous point at night with the ability to carefully observe their surroundings. This capability will be achieved through the use of a compact lightweight monocular carried in the aircrew survival vest.

Search and rescue missions frequently occur at night in mountainous terrain and over water and in most cases timing is critical. The new night vision capability will greatly increase safety and capability when undertaking these challenging missions.

In January 2005, the Department of National Defence awarded the CF-18 Night Vision Equipment Contract – a $1.15 million contract that includes 80 pairs of night vision goggles and test equipment – to U.S. based ITT Industries. In July 2005, the Department exercised an option to purchase an additional 706 pairs of night vision goggles (AN/AVS 9 Aviation Goggles) and test equipment valued at $7.66 million. It is expected that the Canadian Forces will begin taking delivery of the new night vision goggles in February 2006.