BOISE, Idaho — August 8, 2022 — Aviation Specialties Unlimited (ASU) has been named one of just 10 companies selected by the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) to receive funding through the Accelerate the Procurement and Fielding of Innovative Technologies (APFIT) pilot program. The announcement was made in a DoD press release on July 19, 2022.
This competitive funding supports the initial procurement of next‑generation, wide field of view night vision goggles (NVGs) designed for aircrew use within U.S. Special Operations Command (USSOCOM). These advanced aviation NVGs will deliver increased resolution, a significantly wider field of view, and reduced weight—all essential advantages for modern warfighter survivability and mission success.
ASU to Deliver Lightweight Wide Field of View Aviation Goggles
“We are honored that the DoD and USSOCOM have selected ASU to deliver an innovative, lightweight night vision goggle to the hands of warfighters,” said ASU Vice President of Business Development and Marketing, Chad St. Francis. “This Lightweight Wide Field of View Aviation Goggle, currently in development, will give our aviators a significant nighttime combat advantage to accomplish their missions and return home safely.”
This award reinforces ASU’s reputation as a global leader in night vision systems, aviation NVG technology, and mission‑critical optical innovation.
About the APFIT Program
The APFIT pilot program accelerates the transition of breakthrough technologies—especially from small businesses and nontraditional defense contractors—into production. Its goal is to speed delivery of “war‑winning capability” while strengthening the viability of innovative U.S. defense industry partners.
By helping technologies cross the Defense acquisition “Valley of Death”—the gap between prototyping and fielding—APFIT ensures critical advancements reach warfighters faster and more efficiently.
“APFIT holds great promise to transform the way the Department procures next‑generation solutions,” said Heidi Shyu, Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering. “The ten companies being funded will fill critical capability gaps. Without APFIT, their innovative technologies could take much longer to reach the hands of our warfighters.”
About USD(R&E)
The Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering (USD(R&E)) serves as the Chief Technology Officer for the Department of Defense, leading advancements in science, research, engineering, and innovation to maintain U.S. technological superiority.
Learn more at www.cto.mil, follow @DoDCTO on Twitter, or connect on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/ousdre.
About Aviation Specialties Unlimited (ASU)
For more than 30 years, ASU has supported military, law enforcement, and rescue organizations worldwide with Night Vision Solutions That Save Lives. ASU provides:
- Military‑grade night vision goggles (NVGs)
- Custom aircraft lighting modifications
- Comprehensive NVG training
- Sustainment support for global aviation night operations
For more information, call +1 208‑426‑8117
