AR Headsets Now Operational on Five Ships

The U.S. Navy has completed installation of the Augmented Reality Maintenance System (ARMS) aboard five ships, enabling sailors to receive remote support from subject matter experts (SMEs) without requiring onboard visits. 

The installations were completed in under a week in March 2025 aboard USS Curtis Wilbur (DDG 54), USS Lenah Sutcliffe Higbee (DDG 123), USS Gridley (DDG 101), USS Fitzgerald (DDG 62), and USS Nimitz (CVN 68).ARMS connects deployed sailors with SMEs via simplified AR headsets, allowing real-time troubleshooting and access to technical manuals, schematics, and design models. The system is designed to empower crews to complete repairs independently while reducing downtime and travel costs.

“Sailors are by trade operators and maintainers of their warships,” said Capt. Tony Holmes, NSWC PHD Commanding Officer. “ARMS capability goes to the heart of enabling sailor self-sufficiency, and keeping our warships in the fight.”

The installation effort was led by NSWC Port Hueneme Division engineers Matthew Cole and Nick Bernstein with support from NAVAIR and NAVWAR. It marked the conclusion of one Interim Authority to Test (IATT) period and the start of another, as the Navy evaluates ARMS performance prior to full deployment.

ARMS previously used a commercial mixed reality headset that was discontinued in 2023; it now uses AR smart glasses to maintain hands-free capability. Additional headset options, including a 3D-printed prototype, are under review.

“It’s incredibly rewarding seeing this project transition to the fleet and stand on its own to support sailors and SMEs,” Bernstein said.