A wearable, 6.4 ounce sensor has proven its worth in quickly detecting the location of snipers. The devices — developed by QinetiQ North America of McLean, Va., have been used in combat in Afghanistan and Iraq.
The Ears Sniper Detection System audibly cues soldiers on the direction and distance of hostile fire within a tenth of a second of the first shot, says a spokesman. Ears in a vehicle traveling more than 50 miles per hour was able to instantly locate snipers by shockwave and muzzle blast signatures.
It compares to existing sniper detection systems that weigh up to 200 pounds.