A multimode display for night vision imaging system (NVIS) compatible operation including a display assembly including a display subassembly having a display component; and, a backlight printed wiring board (PWB) assembly positioned behind the display subassembly. The backlight printed wiring board (PWB) assembly includes a printed wiring board (PWB). A top side mounted LED array is mounted on a first side of the printed wiring board (PWB) including a top side plurality of LEDs including a top side set of white LEDs. A reverse-mounted LED array is mounted on a second side of the printed wiring board (PWB) including a reverse-mounted plurality of LEDs including a reverse-mounted set of white LEDs. A dedicated primary IR filtering means is operatively associated with the reverse-mounted LED array for conditioning light emitted from the reverse-mounted LED array for NVIS compatible operation. In a day mode of operation the forward-side mounted LED array illuminates the display subassembly. In an NVIS mode of operation filtered light from the reverse-mounted LED array illuminates the display subassembly.