Elbit Systems of America has entered into a NAVSEA Crane contract to install the Joint Helmet Mounted Cueing System (JHMCS) II onboard the AC-130W.
The company secured this contract through its RCEVS joint venture with Rockwell Collins.
Work under the agreement will take place over the course of the next two years. This new contract marks the first JHMCS II integration effort in the US for military cargo aircraft.
Elbit Systems of America president and CEO Raanan Horowitz said: "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.
"The intelligent vision in the cockpit, gives pilots immediate and accurate recognition of friendly, threat, and unknown targets. With this awareness, AC-130 pilots flying with the JHMCS II will have a decided advantage."
The integration of JHMCS II technology is part of a larger effort to extend capabilities of the AC-130 platform.
Enhanced situational awareness is set to be provided by the JHMCS II helmet mounted display system. It is based on technology that integrates colour symbology in both day and night modes.
In addition, it will be able to offer visor projected video in a well-balanced lightweight helmet and integrated system.
The technology reduces pilot fatigue through enhancing the centre of gravity, primarily on the long-duration missions.
The US Air Forces’ (USAF) AC-130W, dubbed the Stinger II, is designed to increase the precision fires capacity available for overseas contingency operations.
It is a highly modified C-130H with enhanced navigation, threat detection, countermeasures, and communication suites.
Image: An AC-130H Spectre gunship deploys flares. Photo: courtesy of US Air Force photo /Senior Airman Julianne Showalter.
