L-3 AN/PVS-15 (M953)

The AN/PVS-15 is based on the DoD nomenclature for the M953. It is a purpose-built ground operations binocular night vision device and is currently issued to members of USSOCOM. The AN/PVS-15 is self-contained, relatively lightweight unit that provides the operator with much-improved depth perception over single tube devices. The housing is engineered to be more rugged, yet still retain the same level of performance as aviation night vision goggles such as the ANVIS-9/6. The AN/PVS-15 is made by L3 Communications as a standard Gen3 Autogated configuration.

The AN/PVS-15 has been made famous by photos of USSOCOM operators wearing them in the Global War on Terror. They far surpass single tube systems when used in a land navigation or vehicle operation role. The human brain requires both eyes to determine depth. Using dual tubes, the brain can quickly and naturally resolve images. The performance of the dual ITT Gen3 PINNACLE Autogated tubes is phenomenal and greatly improves over the legacy system.

The AN/PVS-15’s body housing is self contained and rugged. The battery compartment is part of the actual device, so there is no need to run a remote cable. Diopter and ocular adjustments are easy and familiar to anyone with NV experience. The tube housings are easily adjusted to fit the operator. The built-in IR Illuminator does a good job of lighting up close-in areas as well. Overall, the AN/PVS-15 is a very good piece of kit. In use with U.S. Military Tier1 groups, it sets the bar for binocular night vision devices.

The AN/PVS-15 is available with either standard L-3 EOS Gen3 CS001 tubes or the new L-3 EOS Gen3 Filmless tubes.  Filmless tubes offer greater clarity and higher resolution than legacy Gen3 tubes because of the lack of an ion barrier.  This allows more light into the tube that can be amplified.

Export of Night Vision Equipment or related accessories (such as manuals) is strictly regulated by the US Department of State in accordance with the guidelines of the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR).  It is a major crime to ship or carry US manufactured night vision devices outside the borders of the United States, punishable by fines and prison sentences.  Ignorance of these regulations will not hold up in court.  By purchasing night vision equipment from Mockingbird Precision, you attest that you will not attempt to export or carry this night vision equipment outside the borders of the United States.  Also, it illegal to allow a non-US Citizen to look through US Gen3 Night Vision Devices, even on US soil.  Again, this is a crime punishable by fines and prison sentences. 

Manufacturer:L-3 ELectro Optical Systems Dimensions:4.25″(L) x 4.5″(W) x 3.0″(H) Weight:22.9 oz. Finish:Matte Black, Corrosion Resistant Power:One (1) Standard AA Battery Battery Life:Approx. 10 Hours at Room Temp. Waterproof:66′ Warranty:1 Year Warranty Generation:Gen3 U.S. Resolution:64 lp/mm (Typical) Film:Unfilmed Gate:Auto S:N:25:1 Sensitivity:1800uA/lm @2,856K Photocathode Magnificaiton:1X FOV:40º Objective:F/1.2 Diopter:+2 to -6 Focus Range:9.8″ to Infinity Adjustment:52-80mm Interpupillary Temp:-26º to 120ºF (Operating), -60º to 160ºF (Storage) Included:Two (2) Standard AA Batteries, Two (2) Eye Cup Assemblies, Soft Carry Case, Lens Tissue, Two (2) Sacrificial Windows, Two (2) Demist shields, Operator’s Manual