Night Vision Goggle Research and Training Issues for Ground Forces: A Literature Review

Abstract : A review of the night vision goggle (NVG) literature published over a 30-year period was conducted to identify NVG training issues that should be addressed to enhance the performance of ground forces. First-, second-, and third-generation image intensification devices are covered. Although the focus is on ground forces, research that addressed aviation issues is also included. The review documents bow soldier performance has improved from advancements in image intensification technology as well as from concerted efforts to address some long-standing training problems. Training research and development issues identified are: determining techniques to train soldiers on NVG technology and its application to night tasks, how to train soldiers to integrate NVGs with other equipment, training to enhance distance estimation abilities of soldiers when using NVGs, and training to improve mounted and dismounted navigation skills with NVGs. Attention must also be paid to developing training techniques that will enable soldiers to overcome the learning plateaus and human factors problems with NVGs so they become truly skilled at night with NVGs.

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