The RAF intends to field the Striker II HMD on its Typhoon combat aircraft in 2027–28. (BAE Systems)
The UK Ministry of Defence (MoD) has contracted BAE Systems to further develop its Striker II helmet-mounted display (HMD) for the Eurofighter Typhoon FGR4 combat aircraft.
The GBP40 million (USD49.9 million) award announced on 12 September at DSEI 2023 in London will see the company produce a number of test helmets for trials at its Warton site in northern England.
News of the contract came weeks after Group Captain Matthew D'Aubyn, Air Capability Typhoon programme director, said the UK Royal Air Force (RAF) expects to field the Striker II HMD aboard its Typhoon combat aircraft in 2027–28.
First unveiled to Janes in 2014, the Striker II is billed by BAE Systems as an all-digital HMD solution that delivers “all of the performance all of the time without the need for transition [between day and night modes of operation]”.
As earlier explained to Janes by BAE Systems, the key differentiator between Striker II and earlier models is that the new helmet replaces the clip-on night-vision goggles (NVGs) with a fully integrated digital night-vision camera. This sensor data is presented to the pilot via a binocular visor-projected display at a level equal to or better than HMDs using current NVGs. Striker II also includes hybrid opto-inertial head-tracking technology, which eliminates lag, enabling symbology to be accurately presented onto the visor.
The modular helmet comprises an outer assembly with the day/night camera attached, a display and a glare visor, an inner assembly with a communications assembly, oxygen mask, and a custom-fitted inner protective liner. The reduced weight of the helmet improves the pilot's comfort and makes ejections safer.
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