Elbit Systems of America says their solutions allow USAF pilots and copilots to own the weather, not succumb to it. With the technological solutions giving clarity during bad weather and low light conditions, the probability of mission success increases.
Elbit is offering an array of solutions for enhancing capabilities during poor weather conditions. From digital mapping to head up displays to enhanced vision systems, their solutions provide improved situational awareness to missions that would otherwise be threatened not only by the enemy, but the weather.
If low visibility produces landing and taxiing concerns, the Elbit Systems of America Enhanced Vision System-Superior Performance (EVS-SP™) is a trusted solution of many pilots. The EVS allows flight operations in darkness, smoke, haze, rain, fog, and other weather conditions. The EVS-SP offers the latest proven technology in cooled enhanced vision systems, by providing outstanding capabilities in degraded visibility along with high resolution in a single, weight-saving unit. The aircraft equipped with the EVS-SP displayed on a HUD will experience improved safety and better situational. In addition, aircraft equipped with EVS-SP displayed on a HUD have FAA authorization to descend below 200 ft. decision height using the EVS in lieu of normal vision on any CAT I approach.
HUDs, such as the one designed for the Air Force’s C-17, offer a larger motion box and LCD/LED technology coupled with clear superimposed symbology to increase the pilot’s situational awareness. When the HUD is integrated with an EVS system, a pilot’s awareness in critical phases of flight, during reduced visibility, is enhanced. The integration of the two systems allow military aircraft to safely land, taxi and takeoff in poor weather conditions. The aircrew can then provide rapid strategic delivery of troops and cargo to main operating bases as well as tactical airlift and airdrop operations.
For increased situational awareness outside a fixed HUD’s line of sight, pilots have the option of the JHMCS II Helmet Mounted display. The JHMCS II, based on operationally-proven technology that incorporates color symbology in both day and night modes, uses intuitive flight path symbology along with threat domes for improved situational awareness. The JHMCS II provides visor projected video in a well-balanced lightweight helmet and integrated system. An added benefit for the pilot, the improved center of gravity reduces pilot fatigue on the long-duration missions.
“The JHMCS II system features the most innovative head-tracking technologies available, giving pilots increased situational awareness no matter what direction he or she is looking,” stated Raanan Horowitz, president and CEO of Elbit Systems of America. “The intelligent vision in the cockpit, gives pilots immediate and accurate recognition of friendly, threat, and unknown targets. With this awareness, pilots flying with the JHMCS II will have a decided advantage.”