Sikorsky has selected Rockwell Collins to provide avionics and mission equipment for its US Air Force (USAF) next-generation combat rescue helicopter (CRH) programme.
Under the latest contract, Rockwell Collins will be responsible for the delivery of the cockpit flight and mission display system, navigation radios and the advanced ARC-210 V/UHF communication system.
Rockwell Collins Airborne Solutions vice-president and general manager Troy Brunk said: "In the midst of a combat zone, threats can come from all directions.
"To make sure Air Force pilots are able to conduct search-and-rescue operations safely, it’s vital that they have the most advanced avionics available to improve situational awareness while enhancing mission capability."
The integrated cockpit flight and mission display system of Rockwell offers better situational awareness that minimises pilot workload for the CRH mission.
These multi-function displays will be able to operate in different temperatures and provides enhanced optical performance.
Designed for a wide viewing angle for better cross-cockpit viewing, the systems are fully compliant with the latest night vision imaging system (NVIS) standards.
Rockwell will also supply the newest generation ARC-210 to deliver secure voice communications, including civil interoperability (APCO-25).
The ARC-210 will offer CRH programme with future growth for advanced ad hoc networking as well as next-generation SATCOM with the mobile users objective system (MUOS) capability.
In June last year, the USAF awarded a $1.28bn contract to Sikorsky to develop and supply four new CRH-60 combat search-and-rescue helicopters. The contract also included the delivery of seven training systems and initial product support.
The new helicopters are aimed at replacing a previous Sikorsky product HH-60G Pave Hawk as the USAF’s combat rescue helicopter.
The CRH-60 features better internal fuel capability than the HH-60G helicopter, thereby giving it the required range and increasing its internal cabin space.
Image: A USAF CRH-60 combat search-and-rescue helicopter. Photo: courtesy of Sikorsky.
