In a move which the company described as ‘exciting’ the optics manufacturer EOTECH has acquired Intevac Inc’s Photonics business (Photonics), a “technology leader in cutting edge digital
sensor systems”. Photonics are perhaps best known for their involvement in the US Army’s IVAS programs.

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Photonics specialise in the development and manufacturing of high-sensitivity night vision sensors, cameras, and systems. The company has been involved in technology programs for the AH-64 Apache attack helicopter, the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter, and the US Army’s Integrated Visual Augmentation System (IVAS).

In June 2021, while still a part of Intevac, Photonics were awarded two phase 1 development contracts to support the IVAS program. The first focuses on an enhanced performance CMOS image sensor while the second is centered on Photonics’ Enhanced Performance Electron Bombarded Active Pixel Sensor (EBAPS) technology, both of which are designed to enable improved low-light operations. In October 2021, the US Army delayed the operational testing of the IVAS to May 2022, the decision was made to allow further development of the IVAS

In a press release announcing the deal, Christopher Kouza, Chairman and Founder of Kouza Capital, Inc., the sponsor of the deal and investor in EOTECH said:

The idea of acquiring Photonics made great strategic sense from Day One. Combining the Photonics advanced digital sensor capabilities with EOTECH’s world-class marketing and global distribution reach will be a powerful engine for the future.

A Paratrooper from the 82nd Airborne Division, 1st Battalion 508th Parachute Infantry Regiment, test the Integrated Visual Augmentation System (IVAS) during EDGE 21 at Dugway Proving Ground, Utah, May 2021.

Matt Van Haaren, CEO of EOTECH, said:

Naturally we’re looking forward to combining our teams to strengthen our service to the US military as well as our service to the governments of allied nations. The cultures of both companies are tailor-made for that kind of teamwork. But we’ll also be working in parallel to develop great new product lines that elevate the performance expectations of digital visual augmentation systems for the soldier, the civilian, the vehicle driver, the aviator, and many other users around the world.

This article was originally published over on TFB’s sister site, OvertDefense.com. Check out OVD for the latest defense news and updates.