ARC4 integrates with daytime see-through displays and night-vision goggles. ARC4 is an AR fusion engine that incorporates advanced head tracking sensors and algorithms, network management software, and an intuitive user interface to overlay iconic information on the user’s environment. Rather than looking down at a 2D map or smartphone device, the soldier sees virtual icons (e.g., navigation waypoints, blue forces, aircraft) overlaid on his real-world view.

The ARA-developed ARC4 is outdoor on-the-move augmented reality (AR) technology that delivers heads-up situational awareness to the dismounted warfighter. ARC4 enables the soldier to acquire time-critical tactical information with their ‘head-up’ and ‘eyes-out’ on the environment. In so doing, their head is ‘down’ and their attention is drawn away from what is happening directly in front of them.

There was also the ARC 4, which was used in a DARPA AR program called Ultra-Vis.Traditional dismounted information systems require soldiers to look down at maps or smartphone devices to access tactical information. Over the past two years, the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency has also been working on the Heads Up Navigation, Tracking and Reporting (HUNTER) system, which uses GPS and camera sensors to display designated waypoints and virtual navigational compass. The Army did not make it clear if soldiers are actively utilizing TAR, but this is not the first time the armed forces play around with AR. Images captured by eyepiece or thermal camera can also be shared with other members of the squad. Soldiers can then use the rifle to peek over walls or barriers without exposing their head. The TAR eyepiece will also sync up with a tablet soldiers were on their wrist and to a thermal imaging camera mounted on their rifle. TAR will automatically align itself with the field and also free up both hands - soldiers also don’t have to look down and get distracted.

TAR is supposed to replace the hand-held GPS systems soldiers currently carry, which can be an inconvenience to haul around and manually set up. Navy Is Zapping SEALs Brains To Make Them Super Soldiers

Arc4 augmented reality