The task of the helmet worn by American fighter pilots is not limited to protecting the head, as it represents an integrated command and control system that allows the pilot to manage the engagement and direct weapons through the movement of his head and vision.
The helmet-mounted joint guidance system is used by US Air Force F-15 and F-16 fighter pilots, as well as F/A-18 Hornet and Super Hornet pilots in the Navy.
The system displays flight data, targets and surrounding threats on the helmet visor, allowing the pilot to identify the target and aim the weapon simply by looking at it, without returning to the cockpit displays.
It also provides real-time information about speed and altitude, includes a night vision unit, and helps direct missiles such as the AIM-9X Sidewinder and smart weapons towards targets within the pilot’s field of vision, even if they are far from the plane’s path.
Maintenance contract worth $332 million
According to the National Interest magazine, the US Defense Logistics Agency awarded Rockwell Collins ESA Vision Systems a contract worth $332.62 million to maintain and repair helmets and support the manufacture of new units.
The contract will last for 6 years, with the possibility of extending it for 6 months, and the repair work will be carried out in facilities within the states of Texas and Oregon, in addition to Israel, until July 23, 2032.
The program includes helmets for the US Air Force and Navy, in addition to countries participating in the military sales program, including Morocco, Greece, Singapore, Denmark, Norway, the Sultanate of Oman, Canada, Australia and Taiwan.
6 thousand helmets
Development of the system began in the early 1990s, and it entered initial production in 2000, before being put into operation in 2003 and moving to full production in 2005.
More than 6,000 systems have been produced so far, each worth about $240,000. Despite its high cost, the helmet is an essential part of equipping fighters worth tens of millions of dollars, and it also plays a direct role in protecting the pilot and enhancing his ability to carry out missions. (Al Ain)
