Meta and Anduril are partnering to develop military XR helmets integrating AI and augmented reality, aimed at improving soldiers’ perception and coordination.
Meta Platforms is partnering with Anduril Industries to design extended reality (XR) devices for the US military. The partnership aims to develop the EagleEye system, a smart helmet combining Meta’s augmented reality technologies, its Llama artificial intelligence model, and Anduril’s Lattice command software. The goal is to improve soldiers’ perception, communication, and decision-making on the battlefield. This collaboration marks a significant step in the integration of advanced civilian technologies into the military.
The EagleEye system: a fusion of advanced technologies
The EagleEye system represents a major advance in military equipment. It integrates several cutting-edge technologies to provide soldiers with enhanced perception and better coordination in the field.
Augmented reality and enhanced perception
The EagleEye helmet uses augmented reality (AR) to overlay real-time tactical information onto the soldier’s field of view. This includes data such as the position of allies, enemies, targets, and environmental information. This technology enables faster and more informed decision-making.
Artificial intelligence and decision support
Meta’s Llama artificial intelligence model is integrated into the system to provide real-time decision support. It analyzes battlefield data, identifies potential threats, and suggests recommended actions. This support reduces the cognitive load on soldiers and improves their operational effectiveness.
Command and control with Lattice
Anduril’s Lattice software is used for command and control. It enables effective coordination between units by integrating data from various sensors and providing an overview of the battlefield. Lattice also facilitates integration with other existing military systems.
The SBMC Next program: an evolution of IVAS
The partnership between Meta and Anduril is part of the Soldier Borne Mission Command (SBMC) Next program, an evolution of the Integrated Visual Augmentation System (IVAS) program originally awarded to Microsoft. The IVAS program, with a budget of $22 billion, aimed to develop augmented reality glasses for soldiers. However, technical issues led to a reassessment of the program.
Takeover by Anduril
In February 2025, the US Army transferred management of the program to Anduril, with Microsoft remaining as the cloud service provider. Anduril submitted a joint proposal with Meta for the development of the next variant of the system, highlighting the integration of advanced technologies to enhance soldiers’ capabilities.
Consequences and implications of this collaboration
Technological advances and operational efficiency
The integration of advanced technologies such as augmented reality and artificial intelligence into soldiers’ equipment promises to significantly improve their operational efficiency. Soldiers will be able to access real-time information, make decisions faster, and coordinate their actions more effectively.
Cost reduction and private funding
The EagleEye project is funded by private capital, without recourse to public funds. This approach aims to reduce costs for taxpayers and accelerate the development and deployment of technologies. Anduril raised $1.5 billion in August 2024 and plans to raise up to an additional $2.5 billion.
Reconciliation between Meta and Palmer Luckey
This collaboration also marks the reconciliation between Meta and Palmer Luckey, founder of Oculus and co-founder of Anduril. Luckey left Facebook in 2017 amid political controversy. The new alliance demonstrates a shared commitment to putting past differences aside and focusing on common technological and strategic goals.
Future prospects and challenges
Integration into the armed forces
The success of the EagleEye system will depend on its effective integration into the armed forces. This includes training soldiers in the use of new technologies, adapting tactics and strategies, and ensuring compatibility with existing systems.
Data security and privacy
The use of advanced technologies raises issues of data security and privacy. It will be essential to implement robust measures to protect sensitive information and prevent cyberattacks.
Acceptance by end users
Acceptance of new technologies by soldiers will be crucial. Extensive testing, feedback, and adjustments based on user needs will be necessary to ensure the adoption and effectiveness of the system.
The partnership between Meta and Anduril to develop the EagleEye system represents a significant step forward in the integration of advanced civilian technologies into the military domain. By combining augmented reality, artificial intelligence, and advanced command software, this system aims to improve soldiers’ perception, coordination, and decision-making on the battlefield. Although challenges remain, this collaboration paves the way for a new era of technological innovation in the defense sector.
War Wings Daily is an independant magazine.