New high-tech helmet for Eurofighter Typhoon pilots

Posted on: Jun. 2nd, 2006 || Source: baesystems.com | E-mail Article | Print Article

The latest state-of-the-art pilot helmet designed and manufactured by BAE Systems has been tested on Eurofighter Typhoon, the world's best-selling new generation combat aircraft, in preparation for delivery to front-line pilots.

The helmet is plugged into Typhoon’s computer system and allows the pilot to direct sensors and weapons to where he needs them by simply turning his head; whether that is to cue a missile or lock-on a sensor to an adversary over his shoulder, or indicate a particular point on the ground to his wingman.

Mark Bowman, BAE Systems’ Typhoon project pilot, said: “This helmet means a significant leap-forward for any pilots flying the Typhoon. In addition to all usual safety protection, pilots will now also have a state-of-the-art tracking system, some very high-tech electronics, a projection system and even a night vision camera.”

Eurofighter Typhoon is Europe’s largest defence contract. In service with the four partner nations, it will provide a cornerstone of NATO’s defence capability for the next 30 years and has been designed, from the outset, to evolve in order to meet all envisaged future defence threats.

Strong emphasis has been placed on reducing cost of ownership in addition to outstanding performance and flight safety. Typhoon is s true swing-role aircraft, capable of defending itself from ground and air attack, destroying enemy radar and attacking land targets, carrying out the roles traditionally undertaken by three aircraft types.

Capable of accelerating from brakes off to supersonic in less than 30 seconds, the data processed by Typhoon’s onboard systems is equivalent to the full contents of the bible, twice every second.

About BAE SYSTEMS
BAE Systems is the premier transatlantic defence and aerospace company delivering a full range of products and services for air, land and naval forces, as well as advanced electronics, information technology solutions and customer support services. With more than 100,000 employees worldwide, BAE Systems’ sales exceeded GB £15.4 billion (US$28 billion) in 2005.
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