Finland-based startup Distance Technologies, which emerged from stealth last year, is making waves with its innovative mixed reality (MR) technology that transforms any transparent surface into a display. The company has now partnered with defense manufacturer Patria to integrate this cutting-edge technology into armored vehicles.
As part of the collaboration, Distance and Patria will develop an advanced heads-up display (HUD) for Patria’s six-wheel-drive armored personnel carriers. The system will project 3D tactical data, terrain mapping, and AI-powered military insights directly onto the vehicle’s windshield, enabling troops to navigate in low-visibility conditions such as darkness or smoke.
Unlike traditional HUDs, this MR system eliminates the need for bulky headsets or additional screens. It also prevents light leakage, ensuring vehicle positions remain covert—a crucial advantage in military operations.
According to Distance Technologies CEO and co-founder Urho Konttori, this innovation will provide drivers with “super sensing abilities”, enhancing situational awareness, decision-making, and response time on the battlefield.
Unlike standard car HUDs that display static or pre-programmed information, Distance’s system tracks eye movements and adjusts the projected light field in real time based on where the user is looking. This is made possible by contextual AI, a form of artificial intelligence that adapts to real-world scenarios.
The startup’s light field optics can be added to existing LCDs, transforming transparent surfaces—whether the windshield of a car, an F-18 fighter jet, or an armored vehicle—into an MR interface. The company claims its system offers an “infinite” pixel depth, making the digital overlays appear indistinguishable from natural sight.
Konttori, who previously served as CTO of Helsinki-based XR startup Varjo, appears to have drawn inspiration from his past work. Varjo is known for launching the world’s first retina-resolution XR headset in 2023. However, while Varjo specializes in lens-based headsets, Distance is focused on developing glasses-free MR displays for the automotive, aerospace, and defense industries.
Since its official launch, Distance Technologies has quickly gained traction. In July 2023, the company secured $2.7 million in pre-seed funding, followed by an $11.1 million investment round led by Google Ventures three months later. Now, it is moving toward real-world testing through its partnership with Patria.
This collaboration is part of Patria’s eALLIANCE program, a government-funded initiative designed to support Finland’s civil and defense technology sector. The move aligns with Europe’s increased defense spending amid shifting geopolitical dynamics. Just recently, Germany approved a €500 billion ($545 billion) defense and infrastructure fund, signaling a broader push for military modernization across the region.
