May 24, 2007:
The latest version of the U.S. JHMCS
( Joint Helmet Mounted Cueing Systems), has been modified so that both pilots,
in a two seater fighter, can also share information. This is being used in the
two-seat F-18F. Over the last seven
years, the U.S. Air Force and Navy have bought several thousand JHMCS systems
for F-16s, F-18s and F-15s. A similar system will be used by F-22 and F-35
pilots.
JHMCS allows a pilot to see displayed on his visor,
critical flight and navigation information. Sort of like a see-through computer
monitor or Head Up Display. Most importantly, the pilot can turn his head
towards a target, get an enemy aircraft into the crosshairs displayed on the
visor, and fire a missile that will promptly go after target the pilot was looking
at. There is an additional advantage in letting the pilot look around more
often without having to look down at cockpit displays, or straight ahead at a
HUD (Head Up Display.) This kind of freedom gives an experienced pilot an extra
edge in finding enemy aircraft or targets, and maneuvering to get into a better
position for attacks. JHMCS is also useful for air to ground attacks.
Systems like JHMCS have been around for over a
decade, but JHMCS is lighter and easier to wear (weight was a major problem in
the past), easier to use and more reliable. The Israelis firm Elbit took the
lead in developing this technology, and made many technical breakthroughs with
their earlier DASH (Display and Sight Helmet) system. Elbit teamed up with
American firms to develop and market JHMCS, which is largely an improved DASH
system.