A BAE Systems test pilot models the Striker II HMD for the Eurofighter. Originally a UK project among the Eurofighter partner nations, the Striker II will not be fielded also by Germany and Italy, with Spain yet to decide. (BAE Systems)
Italy is to join Germany and the United Kingdom in fielding the BAE Systems Striker II helmet-mounted display (HMD), with only Spain yet to decide of the four Eurofighter partner nations.
The German Bundeswehr confirmed Italy's intent to join the Striker II programme, including the disclosure in a EUR161.3 million (USD169.54 million) contract notification from the NATO Eurofighter 2000 and Tornado Management Agency (NETMA) for further development of the HMD through to its planned 2028 in-service date.
“With the signing of the contract, both Germany and Italy are joining a development initiative by the United Kingdom to procure and integrate a new pilot-helmet system for the Eurofighter. This means that three of the four user countries intend to use the Striker II helmet system in the Eurofighter in the future. Only Spain is currently still considering an alternative solution,“ the Bundeswehr said.
The Bundeswehr's statement on Italian Air Force (Aeronautica Militare Italiana: AMI) participation in the Striker II project came weeks after the Luftwaffe announced its intent to join on 4 November. Besides Spain the Eurofighter export countries of Austria, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia have also not said if they plan to acquire the Striker II HMD.
The Striker II is one of three key enhancements envisioned for the Eurofighter cockpit, with each complementing the others. With the European Common Radar System (ECRS) and the large-area display (currently company-funded by BAE Systems), the Striker II is intended to aid the pilot in better utilising the increased amount of data being presented.
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