About Practices Directory
Home: Practices: Technology Development: MARS (Multi-function Advanced Rifle Sight)

MARS (Multi-function Advanced Rifle Sight)

MARS is a complete fire-control system for the dismounted infantry soldier. It:

  • provides improved accuracy
    • smart, projected reticle
    • laser rangefinder
    • GPS
    • digital compass
  • extends the range of standard munitions
  • allows intra-squad indirect fires using the M203.
Enhanced Vision and Accuracy

Active Reticle
The active, projected reticle combines AGC for proper display intensity. The reticle automatically adjusts for both range and rifle cant. It is day/night NVG compatible.

Laser rangefinder
The laser rangefinder and digital compass assembly allows for accurate location of targets for artillery or assault.

Munitions Placement
The precision 40-mm munitions placement possible with the MARS system provides increased accuracy, extending the maximum effective range to the maximum munitions range.

Situational Awareness Data
An integrated GPS, digital compass, and 3-axis accelerometer combine with the active reticle and laser rangefinder to provide the user with situational data on many variables. Additionally, the MARS system provides a barrel temperature sampling device, which sends a visible warning when the barrel temperature is in a dangerous range. A barrel shot counter also sends a visible warning when replacement munitions are due, and it stores the information (see Data Storage and Analysis).

Protection
The MARS system maximizes safety and protection by enabling engagement from cover. Sight-directed blind aim allows the user to temporarily break cover and lase target, quickly re-establish cover, then fire, all with minimized exposure. This capability can be integrated at the unit level. With the “Unit Level CFF” capabilities, the leader lases the target, then transmits the coordinates to the grenadier. The grenadier’s targeting system provides the proper aim-point to hit the target.

Data Storage and Analysis
The barrel temperature measurement and barrel shot counter devices allow for non-volatile, long-term data storage for the armorer’s use. This collected data can be combined and analyzed for improved barrel replacement regimen. Information from the devices can be stored in a database relative to individual barrel IDs.

top