Infrared Camouflage of the Warfighter’s Equipment through Enhanced Coating Technology

Abstract

Infrared reflective coatings allow the operator to change the wave signature of military assets. The coatings have the capability to reflect electromagnetic waves in order to match the signature of the observed object to the signature of the corresponding environment, in the visible and near infrared spectra. Consequently, the object blends into the surroundings reducing its vulnerability. The reflectance profile and gloss level of the coating are defined in accordance to the specific environmental constraints, related to the reflectance of soils and vegetation. The paint developed in this study was made with a polyurethane-acrylic based resin, pigments and additives. The final configurations were tested and the reflectance matched those of foliage, sand and soil. The concepts and products developed in this study will be used in the ASTROS Artillery Saturation Rocket System produced by Avibras.