Seeing is Believing

Tactical Range Thermal Imagers Allow Marines to See the Light

Without the sense of sight, trying to come out on the winning side of a firefight is a bit dicey at best. So, trying to remain in control of the fight on a pitch black night can present a challenge.

To improve the Corps' "sightseeing" capabilities, DRS Technologies Inc., developed the Tactical Range Thermal Imagers binocular system. The TRTI incorporates state-of-the-art advancements in night vision technology for an easy-to-use, reliable system.

The TRTI are also suited for several tactical applications, including facility security, border surveillance, personnel detection, law enforcement and night navigation. These lightweight, hand-held, battery-operated, infrared binoculars can be used for long-range observation and reconnaissance missions by reading heat signatures through fog, smoke, and darkness without relying on ambient light.

Offering imaging quality with an ergonomic design, the TRTI is an integrated system that can be utilized for day or night operations. By also utilizing 640 by 480 pixel un-cooled thermalimaging technology, the TRTI ensures low power requirements and a long operational life. The key features of the TRTI include interchangeable lenses and a battery pack that accepts eight disposable or rechargeable AA batteries and an easy-to-use menu control system.

These high tech specs should be on the street by 2006.