BAE Systems Begins Production of Typhoon Helmet-Mounted Display

Rochester, United Kingdom. — BAE Systems has begun production of the head equipment assembly (HEA) for the Eurofighter Typhoon aircraft. Deliveries are scheduled to begin early in 2009.

The Typhoon HEA is the first binocular, visor-projected, night-vision-capable helmet-mounted display developed for a fighter aircraft. The helmet’s fully integrated design ensures compatibility of the electro-optics with head protection and life support, and also incorporates a respirator for protection in nuclear, biological, and chemical warfare environments.

“The Typhoon HEA is the most technologically advanced helmet in the defense avionics market,” said Clark Freise, vice president Defense Avionics for BAE Systems. “We believe, it is the safest, most sustainable, and most accurate helmet-mounted display developed to date. It significantly enhances the weapons system by integrating the pilot more completely into the aircraft and reducing his or her burden during the mission.”

Using state-of-the-art avionics technology, the Typhoon HEA is capable of providing input to the pilot in daylight, at night, and in adverse weather conditions, and remaining stable under intense g forces. The helmet’s technology also interfaces with the Typhoon’s computer system, allowing the pilot to direct sensors and weapons with a simple turn of the head. The pilot can use the helmet to cue missiles, lock a sensor onto an adversary, or target a particular point on the ground.

The helmet has successfully passed ejection tests at speeds up to 600 knots, surpassing the performance of other helmet-mounted displays available today, and has been optimized for pilot comfort and minimized fatigue.