With an eye on the future of wearable computers and other technologies that can assist warfighters in daunting acts of multi-tasking, DARPA initiated programs to develop head-mounted displays to enable soldiers to view information with unprecedented ease and efficiency.
DARPA awarded separate development contracts for miniature displays and an integrated head-mounted display system. In a community-building initiative, DARPA subsequently combined these within a technology development and integration effort.
This work helped lay the groundwork for what continues to be a vibrant research, development and deployment effort — within specific frameworks such as the Army’s Land Warrior Program — for head-mounted displays and other wearable computing technologies.
Redefining Possible
Since 1958, DARPA has been an engine of innovation serving national defense and the U.S. warfighter.