BAE SYSTEMS Delivers First Fully Functonal Helmet - Mounted Display System For Gripen
12 Apr 2005
ROCHESTER, U.K. -- BAE Systems has delivered to Saab AB the first fully functional Gripen helmet-mounted display system, including a high-speed optical head tracker. This event follows the May 2004 first flight of the mechanical Gripen helmet.
BAE Systems received the Gripen helmet contract in 2003 and has been developing the system in close cooperation with Saab AB and partners including Denel Optronics of South Africa. Denel led the development of the electronics unit that incorporates a unique optical head tracker.
The Gripen helmet display system builds on the technology now being delivered on the Eurofighter Typhoon, offering the pilot binocular day/night, 360-degree visibility in a lightweight, comfortable package. The system enables enhanced operational capability with reduced workload by displaying real-time information, such as flight parameters, sensor data, target cueing, and weapon status via intelligent sensors triggered by the pilots head motion onto the binocular visor. The design provides optimum comfort and protection to the pilot throughout the flight envelope, even in aggressive high-g maneuvers.
The second (B) development model helmet will be installed in the Gripen simulator in Linkoping, Sweden, for verification and validation of the software and integration tests with the interfacing computer systems. Full-scale production is anticipated to begin by mid-2006, with delivery to Saab for integration into the Gripen for the South African Air Force.
A variant of the Typhoon/Gripen helmet system employing state-of-the-art digital displays is under development as an alternate helmet design for the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter. This technology has also been adapted for rotary-wing applications and is in flight test in the U.K. as part of the Condor II program.
About BAE SYSTEMS
BAE Systems is an international company engaged in the development, delivery and support of advanced defence and aerospace systems in the air, on land, at sea and in space. The company designs, manufactures and supports military aircraft, surface ships, submarines, fighting vehicles, radar, avionics, communications, electronics and guided weapon systems. It is a pioneer in technology with a heritage stretching back hundreds of years. It is at the forefront of innovation, working to develop the next generation of intelligent defence systems.
BAE Systems has major operations across five continents and customers in some 130 countries. The company has more than 90,000 people and generates annual sales of over 13 billion through its wholly-owned and joint venture operations.
BAE Systems North America is one of Americas foremost national security, aerospace, and information systems companies. It is a leading provider of electronic and information-based systems and knowledge-based solutions that meet its customers mission effectiveness and operational safety needs. BAE Systems North America employs more than 30,000 people at sites across the United States and the United Kingdom and generates more than $5 billion in annual sales.
About Saab:
Saab is one of the worlds leading high-technology companies, with its main operations focusing on defense, aviation, and space. The group covers a broad spectrum of competence and capabilities in systems integration. Read more about Saab at www.saab.se.
About Gripen:
The supersonic, multi-role/swing-role Gripen fighter aircraft is in operational service today. In service with the Swedish Air Force since 1997, it also will equip the South African, Hungarian, and Czech Air Forces. Read more about Gripen and Gripen International at www.gripen.com
For further information, please contact:
Di Francis, BAE Systems
Tel: +44 1634 204758 Mobile: +44 7793 421635 di.francis@baesystems.com
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