New application of electro-optical technology in light weapons

With the progress of information technology and the everincreasing information demands from antiterrorism war as background, the application status of electrooptical technology in light weapons is analyzed. The development of weapons triggered by the change of the operation concept in different nations under new military revolution caused by high technology is described briefly. Based on the fundamental role played by electrooptic technology in improving the performance of light weapons， e.g. improving the shooting accuracy of the light weapons by adding optical systems or electrooptical sights, the relation between light weapon and electrooptical technology is summarized under the new defense demand. The paper elaborates the design features for rifle with elbow structure design, future small weapon mounted on human arm, remote light weapon control station for integrated electrooptical sight, smart ammunitions controlled by situation awareness devices, metal storm weapon system launched in a new concept and etc. The roles that electrooptical technology plays in target acquisition and fire control and ballistic correction are pointed out.