US-based display technology company Kopin has received an $18.6 million award from the US Army to develop advanced full-color MicroLED displays for soldiers and military pilots. The latest award brings the company’s total funding under the programme to $34 million.
The sole-source contract will support the development of two additional display configurations designed for ground personnel and pilots, while strengthening domestic MicroLED manufacturing capabilities in the United States. The displays are intended for military visual systems requiring high brightness, low power consumption, and enhanced durability. Potential applications include soldier-worn vision systems, pilot heads-up displays, weapon sights, and helmet-mounted displays.
Kopin CEO Michael Murray stated that the funding would enable the company to develop specialised display solutions tailored to specific Army equipment and operational requirements. However, the company has not disclosed the delivery timeline or identified the military platforms expected to incorporate the new configurations.
Kopin Expands Its US Defence Technology Portfolio
Kopin continues to expand its defence technology business through contracts and development milestones involving soldier vision systems, thermal imaging equipment, and first-person-view (FPV) drone goggles.
In July, the Massachusetts-based company achieved three development milestones under a US Army-supported programme focused on full-colour MicroLED displays for soldier-worn vision systems. The technology is designed to provide digital overlays and improve situational awareness for troops operating in the field.
In May, Kopin secured a $21.5 million contract to supply thermal imaging assemblies for a portable US military weapon system. The agreement covers customised eyepiece assemblies for an undisclosed defence contractor, including microdisplays, optical components, drive electronics, and ruggedised housings. These technologies are designed to help military personnel detect and identify targets during both day and night operations.
Earlier, in April, the company received an initial $3.2 million contract to supply optical modules for a next-generation FPV drone goggle system. The agreement marked Kopin’s entry into the drone technology sector and supports a programme with potential deliveries of up to 40,000 units by 2028 through an undisclosed partner.
