Context
Asymmetrical conflicts imply permanent threats as allied and enemy forces overlap each other, which reinforces the need for 360° Situation Awareness (SA) around vehicles. On the other hand, the resurgence of high-intensity conflicts leads to strengthening the armor of the vehicles, which considerably reduces the visibility of the crew onboard.
An efficient Situation Awareness (SA) fulfills the need for observation around the vehicle and facilitates both mobility and maneuvering in complex environments, such as urban areas. When moving or in direct contact, it also favors both crew and vehicle’s protection thanks to early detection of surrounding threats, such as ambushes or obstacles on the ground. Reinforcing infantrymen’ safety is also crucial during landing phases, as they are particularly exposed and vulnerable when deploying.
Every terrestrial platform is affected by these visibility concerns, from the Light Armored Vehicle (LAV) to the heavy Infantry Fighting Vehicle (IFV), be it retrofitted or new-generation. Regardless of the vehicle’s type, the ruggedness and compactness of the integrated systems must prevail, as well as well-reasoned costs for mass deployment.
