Finnish AR tech revolutionizes battlefield vision for military vehicle operators

Military vehicle operators are set to gain a new tool for seeing the battlefield with the development of a head-mounted augmented reality (AR) system.

Finnish optics technology manufacturer Distance Technologies has created the Field Operator HUD (FOH), which is scheduled to enter field trials with NATO forces and allied nations in the coming months, with broader availability planned for 2027, according to an article by Next Gen Defense.

The FOH pairs advanced sensors with an onboard display to enhance situational awareness while reducing visual workload in contested environments. Its modular interface combines command-and-control (C2) functions, improved visual perception, and multiple sensor inputs to support complex missions.

Rather than showing every available data stream, the FOH focuses only on mission-critical inputs from existing vehicle and soldier systems, creating a clear operational picture for faster decision-making.

“The need for synthesizing multiple data streams and visualizing battlefield data presents a distinct tactical advantage only when it does not overwhelm the operator with too much information,” the company said.

“The new FOH is designed with a minimalist, mission-first modular [user interface] refined through iterative field use testing.”

The system uses lightweight, high-definition computational AR optics that connect with vehicle and soldier systems via robust wired and wireless links. AI-enabled processing fuses data from multiple sensors to identify and track relevant objects while filtering the display to show only what is operationally relevant.

The FOH also allows shared control of unmanned aerial vehicles, providing live video and location data for coordinated unit operations. It can integrate with existing night-vision goggles to keep digital information visible during low-light and nighttime missions.

The system also enables shared control of unmanned aerial vehicles, delivering live video and location data for coordinated unit operations.

It can integrate with existing night-vision goggles to keep digital information visible during low-light and nighttime missions.

By Nazrin Sadigova