US Army Funds Kopin’s Advanced MicroLED Display Development — Kopin has received an additional $18.6 million from the US Army to advance colour MicroLED displays for military personnel, raising total program funding to $34 million. The sole-source award supports the development of two new display configurations for soldiers and pilots, alongside US-based manufacturing activities. The displays are intended for demanding defence applications where brightness, power efficiency, and durability are essential, including wearable soldier vision systems, aircraft heads-up displays, weapon sights, and helmet-mounted equipment. Chief Executive Officer Michael Murray said the funding would support the development of displays designed around specific Army platforms and operational needs. However, Kopin has not announced delivery dates or disclosed which systems will receive the new configurations. The company continues to expand its military technology business through projects involving visual systems, thermal imaging, and drone equipment. In July, it completed three development milestones under an Army-supported initiative to create full-colour MicroLED displays for soldier-worn systems that could provide digital overlays and improve situational awareness. A separate $21.5-million award received in May covers thermal imaging assemblies for a portable military weapon system, including optical components, microdisplays, electronics, and ruggedised housings supplied to an undisclosed defence contractor. In April, Kopin entered the drone sector through an initial $3.2-million contract for optical modules used in next-generation first-person-view goggles, supporting a wider program that could deliver as many as 40,000 units by 2028.
