Helmet Mounted Displays Are a Key Combat Advantage for U.S. and Allied Pilots

[rangerrebew]

Helmet Mounted Displays Are a Key Combat Advantage for U.S. and Allied Pilots
.
By Dan Gouré
September 05, 2020
 

What are the capabilities or technologies that distinguish advanced fighter aircraft from their predecessors? A reader would likely list electronically-scanning radar and other sensors, high-performance engines, advanced avionics, and maybe precision munitions. If one were considering fifth-generation aircraft, the F-22 and F-35, then supercruise power, stealth shaping and coating, and information sharing would be added. But how many would include helmet-mounted displays (HMDs) on their list. Yet HMDs are now part of the equipment aboard thousands of fourth- and fifth-generation aircraft. HMDs constitute a key advantage for U.S. and allied pilots in any future conflict.

Described simply, an HMD is a video projector displaying fused sensor information on the inside of the pilot’s helmet – a form of augmented reality – allowing them to see the world overlaid with critical information and take necessary action quickly. HMDs send critical and time-sensitive information directly into the pilot’s view, no matter where they turn their head. Operationally, this is essential for both air-to-air and air-to-ground combat. It is vital for pilots to keep “eyes-out” (looking outside the cockpit) for everything from the next threat or target to their wingman's location. This is opposed to being “eyes-in” (looking inside the cockpit) while monitoring legacy displays and controls.

https://www.realcleardefense.com/articles/2020/09/05/helmet_mounted_displays_are_a_key_combat_advantage_for_us_and_allied_pilots_576513.html

[PeteS in CA]

These are basically the next step from HUDs. I'm pretty sure Kaiser Electronics was working on some sort of display that was integrated into pilot helmets back in the early 80s. So I would not be surprised if the Russians and Chinese have something along these lines.