Thursday, October 02, 2008

LRAS3 a lifesaver for Soldiers

Photo by Paul Bello
James Chaffin, an instructor with the LRAS3 mobile training facility, provides a demonstration of the device during a recent exercise at Fort Belvoir.

Equipped with a forward-looking infrared sensor, a GPS laser range finder and a built-in digital video camera, the Long Range Advanced Scout Surveillance System has become a trusted friend for anyone on tour in the Middle East.

With this new technology, Soldiers have increased flexibility and can maneuver their vehicles to avoid detection by enemy forces. Because of its heat-sensing capabilities, this also allows a greater opportunity for U.S. forces to acquire enemy targets without having to assume a higher-risk course of action, said John Notte, project leader for the LRAS3.

As part of a major training initiative, the Army has followed suit with an LRAS3 mobile training facility, which will make the rounds at military installations across the country, including several National Guard locations, this month.

Kerry Alzner, one of the facility’s training instructors, said students learn every aspect of the LRAS3 and how to utilize programs dealing with thermal identification. 

“This system is exceptional at identifying enemy vehicles, Soldiers and improvised explosion devices,” Alzner said. “The training is geared towards those who are getting ready for deployment, with a primary focus on Calvary scouts and Infantry men. That way, they’ll have an even better understanding of how FLIR works
once overseas.”

With vehicle identification enhanced, Alzner added that forces have an incredible advantage in recognizing whether a vehicle is enemy or friendly.

During an open house demonstration earlier this week at Fort Belvoir, Lt. Col. Ed Stawowczyk, FLIR product manager, gave special thanks to Notte, FLIR lead trainer Chico Del Garza and Maj. Chris Schneider, who is currently on tour in Iraq, for all their work related to the LRAS3. According to him, he’s never seen a commitment to training quite like this.

“Our Soldiers deserve the very best and we have a moral obligation to train them to the highest standards,” Stawowczyk said. “This is a phenomenal team of trainers and we couldn’t have asked for anyone better.”