The Ultimate Guide to the L3Harris GPNVG-18: Ground Panoramic Night Vision Goggles
The L3Harris GPNVG-18 (Ground Panoramic Night Vision Goggle) is a cutting-edge piece of technology designed to enhance situational awareness and operational effectiveness in low-light environments. These goggles are renowned for their wide field of view and exceptional image quality, making them a preferred choice for military and special forces around the world. In this guide, we will delve into the various aspects of the GPNVG-18, including its features, applications, and comparisons with other night vision devices.
Comparison of GPNVG Types and Applications
| Type | Field of View | Applications | Weight | Power Source | FOM Range | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| GPNVG-18 | 97 degrees | Military, law enforcement | Lightweight | CR123 or PVS-31 cold weather | 1792 – 2376+ | $45,299 – $46,299 |
| ANVS (AN/AVS-9) | 40 degrees | Military aviation | Heavier | AA Batteries | 1200 – 2000 | $20,000 – $25,000 |
| BNVD (Binocular NVG) | 40 degrees | Tactical operations | Medium | CR123 or AA Batteries | 1600 – 2200 | $15,000 – $22,000 |
| PNVG (Panoramic NVG) | 100 degrees | Special Forces | Medium | CR123 or custom battery packs | 1600 – 2000 | $30,000 – $40,000 |
Overview of the GPNVG-18
The GPNVG-18 is designed for superior performance in various tactical situations. Its 97-degree panoramic field of view is significantly wider than traditional night vision goggles, allowing operators to gain better situational awareness. The goggles utilize four independent image intensifier tubes, which ensure high-resolution images that enhance depth perception.
Key Features
- Wide Field of View: The 97-degree field of view allows operators to see more of their environment without having to turn their heads.
- Image Quality: Equipped with unfilmed white phosphor image intensifiers, the GPNVG-18 offers exceptional clarity and improves performance in both low-light and bright conditions.
- Lightweight Design: Its lightweight construction ensures comfort during extended use, making it suitable for prolonged missions.
- Versatile Power Options: Users can power the GPNVG-18 using a standard CR123 battery pack or a PVS-31 cold weather battery pack, providing flexibility in various operational scenarios.
Applications of the GPNVG-18
The GPNVG-18 is primarily used in military and law enforcement applications, but its features make it versatile enough for a variety of uses:
Military Operations
Special forces and infantry units benefit from the GPNVG-18’s ability to provide a wide field of view, allowing for better coordination and situational awareness during night operations.
Law Enforcement
SWAT teams and tactical law enforcement units utilize the GPNVG-18 for surveillance and operations in low-light conditions, enhancing their effectiveness in critical situations.
Search and Rescue
Search and rescue teams can take advantage of the GPNVG-18 in low visibility conditions, allowing them to navigate and locate individuals more effectively.
Technical Comparison of GPNVG Models
| Feature | GPNVG-18 | ANVS (AN/AVS-9) | BNVD | PNVG |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Field of View | 97 degrees | 40 degrees | 40 degrees | 100 degrees |
| Weight | Lightweight | Heavier | Medium | Medium |
| Power Source | CR123, PVS-31 | AA Batteries | CR123, AA | Custom battery packs |
| FOM Range | 1792 – 2376+ | 1200 – 2000 | 1600 – 2200 | 1600 – 2000 |
| Warranty | 1 year | 1 year | 1 year | 1 year |
| Price Range | $45,299 – $46,299 | $20,000 – $25,000 | $15,000 – $22,000 | $30,000 – $40,000 |
Advantages of the GPNVG-18
- Enhanced Situational Awareness: The wide field of view significantly reduces blind spots.
- Rugged and Reliable: Built to withstand harsh environments, making it suitable for military and law enforcement.
- User Friendly: The design allows for easy attachment and detachment of optical pods for handheld use.
Considerations When Choosing Night Vision Goggles
- Purpose: Determine the primary use case—military, law enforcement, or recreational.
- Field of View: A wider field of view is beneficial for tactical operations.
- Weight: Consider how long you will wear the device and choose a lightweight option for comfort.
- Budget: Higher-end models like the GPNVG-18 come at a premium, so assess your budget accordingly.
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Conclusion
The L3Harris GPNVG-18 stands out as a premier choice for those who require high-performance night vision capabilities. Its exceptional field of view, robust design, and advanced image quality make it ideal for military, law enforcement, and search and rescue operations. Understanding the unique features and applications of the GPNVG-18 can help users make informed decisions when investing in night vision technology.
FAQ
What is the GPNVG-18?
The GPNVG-18 is a Ground Panoramic Night Vision Goggle developed by L3Harris, featuring a 97-degree field of view, unfilmed white phosphor image intensifiers, and is designed for military and tactical applications.
How does the GPNVG-18 differ from traditional night vision goggles?
Unlike traditional night vision goggles that typically offer a 40-degree field of view, the GPNVG-18 provides a 97-degree field of view, greatly enhancing situational awareness.
What applications is the GPNVG-18 used for?
The GPNVG-18 is primarily used by military special forces, law enforcement tactical units, and search and rescue teams for operations in low-light conditions.
What is the weight of the GPNVG-18?
The GPNVG-18 is designed to be lightweight, though specific weights may vary depending on configurations and accessory attachments.
What power sources can the GPNVG-18 use?
The GPNVG-18 can be powered by a CR123 battery pack or a PVS-31 cold weather battery pack, offering versatility for various operational needs.
What is the FOM range for the GPNVG-18?
The GPNVG-18 is available in two FOM ranges: 1792 and 2376+, with the higher FOM indicating better image quality and performance.
How long is the warranty for the GPNVG-18?
The GPNVG-18 comes with a standard factory warranty of one year.
Are the GPNVG-18 goggles serviceable after warranty?
Yes, the GPNVG-18 can be serviced by L3Harris even after the warranty period has expired.
Can the GPNVG-18 be used for handheld applications?
Yes, the GPNVG-18 allows for the detachment of optical pods, enabling users to deploy a single optical pod for handheld use.
Where can I purchase the GPNVG-18?
The GPNVG-18 can be purchased from various retailers, including tnvc.com, darqindustries.com, and acnightvision.com.
