Overview of the adaptive camouflage for the soldier II (ACAMSII) project

The development of new sensing abilities, such as hyperspectral sensors, small man-portable infrared sensors, battlefield radars and faster AI based data processing requires new capabilities of camouflage materials. Military systems also have to work in changing environments calling for adaptivity. ACAMSII is an EU funded project within the Preparatory Action for Defence Research (PADR) programme under grant agreement No 800871. Scientists from Sweden, Germany, Portugal, France, Lithuania and the Netherlands cooperate in the project. ACAMSII conducts applied research on improved Camouflage for the Soldier with purpose to provide increased survivability in diversified environments. The ACAMSII multifunctional camouflage demonstrator consists of three main parts: • The IR adaptivity is realized by integrating phase changing and low emissivity materials in the printed camouflage patterned textile. • Adaption to background colours and lighting conditions in the visible range is managed by operating and driving light emitting diodes (LEDs) embedded in a panel of clothing textile material. The LEDs are controlled by means of a camera and a light sensor placed in the back. Thermochromic materials give further adaptation. • Woven fabric is coated with microwave shielding and absorbing materials reduces the radar signature. For a soldier combat system, not only camouflage properties are of importance but also the comfort properties of the system is evaluated. In this paper emphasis is put on military needs (top-down or market pull) and scientific aspects and technical readiness level of available technology and materials (technology push or down-up), on how to build a consortium in an international collaboration during a pandemic. The concept of EDA Overarching Strategic Research Agenda is introduced and the projects relation to this explained. Only general aspects and results from the three-year project, ending 2021, is presented here whereas specific details of the camouflage system are presented in other papers presented during the session.