First Gen III F-35 HMDS delivered
Rockwell Collins has delivered the first Gen III F-35 Helmet Mounted Display System (HMDS) for the F-35 programme ahead of its introduction to the fleet in 2016.
The new-generation HMDS was developed through the joint venture Rockwell Collins ESA Vision Systems. It enables pilots to 'look through' the airframe, giving them enhanced situational awareness.
The Gen III helmet features automated alignment and software improvements, improved liquid-crystal displays and an improved night vision camera.
The HMDS projects all mission-essential information on the pilot's helmet visor in all light and all weather conditions. The airframe 'look through' capability is provided by Northrop Grumman’s Distributed Aperture System, which streams real-time imagery from six infrared cameras mounted around the aircraft.
Rockwell Collins has built and fit over 200 helmets for pilots undergoing training for the Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II programme.
The helmet will be introduced to the fleet in low rate initial production Lot 7 in 2016.