These brand-new systems, come with a complete factory warranty from L3Harris and continuing product support, even after the stated warranty period has ended, as well as factory Tube Data Records for each of the four, matched and collimated MIL-SPEC MX-10160 format Unfilmed White Phosphor image intensifier tubes. The units also come complete with a CR123 powered external battery pack (required for operation, as the GPNVG has no onboard power supply), and are available in BOTH ANVS Ball-Detent format and BNVS Dovetail format mounting configurations with the appropriate cables to function with the mounting configuration. The external power supply also serves a secondary function as a counterweight to the GPNVG’s no inconsiderable system weight of 27 ounces. The GPNVG can also be powered by the L3Harris 4x Lithium AA Cold Weather Battery Pack (CWBP – sold separately), and both the CR123 and AA battery packs will fit in the purpose designed Mohawk MK3 helmet counterweight and battery pack pouch.

One of the biggest innovations in night vision technology is the Ground Panoramic Night Vision Goggle (GPNVG).  The purpose of the GPNVG is to provide the operator more information under goggles, allowing them to more quickly move through the OODA Loop (Observe, Orient, Decide, Act). The most striking feature of the GPNVG is the presence of four separate image intensifier tubes with four separate objective lenses arrayed in a panoramic orientation. The center two lenses points forward like traditional dual-tube goggles, giving the operator more depth perception, while two more tubes point slightly outward from the center to increase peripheral view. The two tubes on the right and the two on the left are spliced at the eyepieces. The operator sees the two center tubes somewhat overlapping the two outer tubes to produce an unprecedented 97° FOV.  The two right and two left tubes are housed in merged assemblies and are hung from a bridge similar to ANVIS goggles, giving operators transverse interpupillary adjustment. They can also be easily removed and operated as independent handheld viewers.

System adjustment and placement is key in providing the best image to the operator. One of the main adjustments for focus in a night vision goggle is the diopter. Diopter focus adjustment is traditionally achieved by rotating a diopter focus ring. This adjusts focus of the goggle as it is in relation to the individual wearer’s eye(s). The challenge presented by the panoramic lens assembly of the GPNVG is that the rear lenses are “fused” together, almost like a prism. This is what gives the operator the overlapping images from the forward and angled tubes. But it also keeps the goggles from being able to have diopter rings for focus. The GPNVG comes standard with a -0.50 dioter insert, optimized for the 95th percentile of users, however diopter adjustments can be accomplished with interchangeable diopter windows that stand off the lens.

The GPNVG utilizes mil-spec Gen3 Unfilmed White Phosphor 18mm MX-10160 image intensifier tubes. These tubes are good for maintenance because they use L3Harris’ solder-free replaceable tube design. This is a very welcome feature since the modular L3 tubes do not require a whole operation to replace. Some quick work with common tools, and the tube replacement is done. In fact, the entire goggle has been designed with maintenance in mind. One of the biggest issues with NVG’s (and just about any highly technical device) is maintenance of damaged/non-functioning equipment. This is often a lengthy process that requires a unit to be without equipment for a while because devices require specialty tools and facilities for repair. The GPNVGs have a totally modular chassis with a fully serviceable bridge.

Using the GPNVG is a unique experience. For someone who has grown accustomed to the narrow FOV of standard goggles, the night looks completely different with 97°. There is no loss of visual acuity in the outer channels, so image looks as crisp in the widest parts as it does in the traditional “zone 1.” There is a slight wave of blocked image in the overlap, but it is minor, and you only “see” an overlap of three images since your brain melds the two center tubes (just like any binocular system). After wearing the goggle for about five minutes, your brain does not even see the slight black semi-circle where the overlap occurs.

Specifications

• Manufacturer: L3Harris Technologies
• Dimensions: 5.625in(L) x 8.50in(W) x 3.75in(H)
• Weight: 27.0 oz
• Finish: FDE, corrosion resistant
• Power: Four (4) 3V CR123A Batteries (Remote)
• Battery life: Approx. 30 Hours
• Immersion: One Meter for Two Hours
• Warranty: 1 Year Warranty
• Generation: Gen3 U.S. L3Harris
• Tube type: Four 18mm MX-10160
• Minimum Figure of Merit (SNR x LP/MM): 1792
• Film/phosphor: Unfilmed White Phosphor (P45)
• Gate: Auto
• Gain: Auto
• Magnification: 1x
• FOV: 97°
• Diopter: Snap-On Windows -0.5 standard
• Focus: 18in to Infinity
• Includes: GPNVG Goggle, Remote Battery Pack, Connection Cable, Hard Storage Box, Padded Transport Case, Batteries, Lens Cleaning Kit