Microsoft wins contract to supply military with VR headsets

Joe Teehan

KGMIAP Photo/Elaine ThompsonMembers of a design team at Cirque du Soleil demonstrate use of Microsoft's HoloLens device in helping to virtually design a set at the Microsoft Build 2017 developers conference in Seattle. Federal contract records show the U.S. Army has awarded Microsoft a $480 million contract to supply its HoloLens headsets to soldiers.

11-30-2018

SEATTLE, Wash. — Virtual-reality and augmented-reality headsets are finding a place on the battlefield.

The U.S. Army said Thursday they awarded Microsoft a $480 million contract to supply HoloLens headsets to soldiers.

The head-mounted displays use augmented reality, which means viewers can see virtual imagery superimposed over the real-world scenery in front of them.

Microsoft tells Gizmodo.com the technology will provide troops with better information to make decisions.

Military bidding documents say the technology will be used for both training and fighting, bringing more situational awareness to troops to help them become more lethal and mobile.