At AUSA 2016, Qioptiq, an Excelitas Technologies company, is showcasing its KESTREL Image Intensified Rugged Night Vision Binocular, which is currently gaining large interest from specialised users.
The KESTREL binocular configuration enables enhanced depth perception and is particularly suitable for vehicle driving, parachute jumps and Special Forces operations, even at very low light levels. KESTREL provides state of the art and rugged mechanical design offering stability of the goggle bodies for improved comfort during long periods o use. KESTREL offers great optical performance in a similar size and weight to other binoculars. KESTREL is available in two versions offering different weight / performance options:
KESTREL LW (Light Weight) with F/1.2 lens: Reduced weight for increased mobility
KESTREL HP (High Performance) with F/0.95 lens: Fast aperture collects 60% more light than conventional binoculars for increased sensitivity at low light levels, according to the company.
KESTREL provides a wide range of adjustments, allowing the user to set the NVG to his requirements. Additionally a ruggedised helmet mount has been developed to be compatible with a range of Helmet Mounting Shrouds.
Features of the KESTREL include: Field of view: 40°; Objective lens: F/1.2 (LW), F/0.95 (HP); Focus Range: 25cm to infinity; Dioptre Range: -5 to +3 dioptres.
KESTREL is a self-contained system operating on a single AA battery or with a rear battery-pack for longer operations and is compliant with military standard requirements.