Abstract: Apparatus for illuminating a portion of the cockpit of an aircraft utilizing a night vision imaging system. The apparatus comprising and illumination unit rising an LED for selectively producing a beam of light which will not adversely affect the operation of the night vision imaging system. The illumination unit is arranged to be releasably mounted on the pilot's index finger. The illumination unit includes a pair of depressible switches each of which is arranged to be operated by the pilot's thumb or another finger to cause the unit to produce the light beam. The unit is mounted on the pilot's index finger by a ring formed of a hook and loop fastening system.