Laser Armor Designed To Protect Aircrews From Blinding Lasers

In response to the increasing number of incidents in which laser beams are directed at aircraft cockpits, Night Flight Concepts has unveiled new optical systems for laser defense offer equipment and training options to help aviation organizations defend against laser attacks.

The technology, called 'Laser Armor', was rolled out Thursday at a one-day symposium hosted by ATA and ALPA in Washington, D.C. focusing on the issue. NFC says Laser Armor aids in the planning and implementation of a coordinated response that protects personnel and equipment from voluntary and involuntary laser strikes, while at the same time extending operational capabilities and readiness in night operations.

“Our company is pleased to support this strategic conference that is raising awareness of the growing problem of inappropriate use of lasers illegally targeting aircraft,” said Night Flight Concepts President, Adam Aldous. “Our approach is to support a multi-faceted response to the issue that includes national flight legislation and the adoption of preventative measures by flight organizations to prevent potential illuminations or minimize cockpit disruption.”

Night Flight Concepts says Laser Armor is a new line of products designed to provide unique protective products to assist civil, government and industry aviation organizations worldwide. This is accomplished through increased laser strike readiness that helps prevent possible damage to personnel and equipment. The up-side is improved operational safety and performance. The system consists of Laser Armor Aviator Glasses, designed for use at night, which optimize protection from intentional or incidental laser strikes without compromising the wearer’s ability to perform on the job. Glasses absorb 99.5% of green laser and 97% of blue laser strike beams without compromising pilot visual acuity or cockpit display panel color recognition. The LIF (light interference filter) is designed for use with leading Night Vision Goggles (NVGs) to protect image intensifier tubes from damage from intentional or incidental exposure to laser strike beams.  The Laser Armor LIF will absorb laser strike beams (absorbing 90-99.5% of the beam energy), to protect the image intensifier tube from laser spot damage.

Bundled with Laser Armor glasses and LIF products, Laser Armor Aviation Laser Defense Training provides a flexible, self-paced e-learning opportunity to provide the necessary educational context on laser strikes, product capabilities, limitations and operation requirements to help improve user performance. The program addresses the need for education about laser strikes and covers mitigation techniques most effective in the public safety sector of aviation. For organizations looking for additional guidance on program planning and implementation, Night Flight Concepts also offers consulting services to assist with Laser Defense Program development.

FMI: www.Laserstrikeprotection.com, www.nightflightconcepts.com