SOFINS 2021: K9 Vision System showcases control helmet for combat dogs.

The idea of the K9 Vision System comes from an operational need of the special forces. New training techniques implemented to operational dogs like laser guiding and remote control open new fields of use no longer limited by the visual range of the guide. Hence the decision of starting a new technological mission: to create a system enabling to see what the dog discovers in real-time and give it orders when they are out of visual range.

K9 Vision System (Picture source: Army Recognition)

So, the goal of K9 Vision System was to develop a high-quality video and radio transmission means working in real-time to maximize the operational capabilities of a special forces team while being comfortable for the dog. In cooperation with various innovators in drone technologies, the K9 Vision System came true. It has since been purchased by various French, Belgian, Dutch and even U.S. special forces and special units, among others. And the success keeps growing.

K9 Vision System One

The helmet contains a forward 145°-wide vision angle camera, either in color or black and white. An audio receiver enables the operator to give orders to his/her dog. The transmission is encrypted, using three micro SD cards (2 for the receptor and 1 for the emitter). Three types of an antenna can be fitted on the helmet system: small, long and vehicle, with a range varying from 300 to 800 meters. The system has a 4-hour autonomy. The system weighs 340 gr: 140 for the mask (helmet) and 200 for the necklace.

K9 Vision System Pro

The system uses two cameras offering both forward and rearward a 145°-wide vision angle, either in color or black and white. The other components of the system remain the same but there is an additional microphone coupled to loudspeakers.

K9 Vision System Spec Ops

The system is identical to the Pro one, with additional devices, namely a screen that the operator fastens on his/her wrist. The autonomy is extended to 8 hours (2 batteries of 4 hours each) + 3 minutes « hot-swap ». The transmitter is waterproof (IP67 class).

K9 Vision System on the operator's side, with a wrist screen (Picture source: Army Recognition)

K9 Vision System (Picture source: Army Recognition)