Kopin Corporation, a leading provider of application-specific optical systems and high-performance microdisplays for defense, training, enterprise, industrial, consumer, and medical products, has announced it has been awarded a $3.2 million initial order for an innovative optical module supporting a key partner’s next-generation first person view (FPV) goggle system for drone pilots. The program includes the potential delivery of up to 40,000 goggles by the end of 2028. This award marks Kopin’s formal entry into the rapidly expanding FPV drone market — a sector experiencing significant demand for advanced, ruggedized vision systems.
FPV goggles allow drone operators to see and guide a drone’s flight path as if they were in the pilot’s seat onboard the aircraft. Cameras and sensors mounted on the drone transmit real-time imagery to the goggles, enabling pilots to remotely control the drone from miles away.
At the center of this new order is Sentinel FPV, Kopin’s newly launched FPV concept for drone pilots. Sentinel integrates high-performance OLED microdisplays in a monocular or binocular configuration, delivering exceptional battlefield vision in a lightweight, non-occlusive package for mission-critical drone operations. Engineered specifically for tactical FPV goggle applications, the Sentinel module leverages Kopin’s deep expertise in microdisplay integration, near-eye precision optics, and ruggedized system design.
Breakthrough Dual Situational Awareness Technology
Kopin’s Sentinel FPV technology represents a major advancement in drone vision, designed for the military, not the hobbyist. Unlike traditional FPV goggles that fully block out the user’s view, Sentinel is designed to deliver Dual Situational Awareness (Dual SA) — allowing operators in hostile environments to view high-definition drone imagery while maintaining awareness and dexterity within their immediate surroundings. No other FPV goggle on the market provides this level of hands-free integrated awareness. Pilots who have tested Sentinel consistently highlight the dramatic improvements in survivability and mission effectiveness it brings. By reducing the need for pilot overwatch (where two warfighters protect each pilot), each team now gains a decisive advantage in hostile environments where the pilot can see their immediate surroundings while maintaining constant drone vision without removing their goggles.
Early field trials have reaffirmed exceptional user comfort, system versatility, strong appreciation for the HD and daytime-readable module, as well as clear demand for the Dual SA capability that only Sentinel FPV-based goggles can offer. Mission effectiveness was enhanced while pilot dexterity and safety were also dramatically improved.
Nic Peterson, Director of Warfighter Vision at Kopin, stated:
“The introduction of Kopin’s FPV Sentinel technology, supported by a $3.2 million initial order with additional follow-on potential, comes at a pivotal time. Rising geopolitical tensions and the accelerating adoption of unmanned systems are driving global demand for drone-enabled intelligence and advanced FPV solutions that enhance warfighter situational awareness and operational safety. Our goal is to ensure that warfighters have access to the most advanced, intuitive, and safe FPV technology available. This new order underscores the growing demand for Kopin’s optical expertise and our commitment to delivering solutions that elevate situational awareness and operational performance.”
Partnering to Bring Dual SA to the Front Lines
The Sentinel FPV display and optic module is designed to easily integrate into any FPV vision solution. Kopin is rapidly expanding its FPV production capacity and is engaged with other drone and FPV companies seeking to integrate Kopin’s unique technologies into their drone platforms. By combining clearer drone feeds with real-world peripheral awareness, Sentinel enhances mission execution, reduces operator risk, and supports more informed decision-making in highly dynamic, fast-moving battlefield situations.
