BAE Systems Tests Obstacle Detection System for Helicopters

BAE Systems finished flight testing a prototype system that uses radar to identify low hanging cables and other obstacles, and provides precise altimeter information to helicopter pilots.

The system weighs less than 8 pounds, plus antennas, and can detect obstacles day or night at distances greater than 2.5 kilometers in all types of weather, using a low-probability-of-detection radar technology. While this prototype system is designed for military applications, BAE also is developing a commercial version.

BAE Systems developed the test program with input from multiple government agencies and performed the evaluation in Arlington, Texas, using Bell Helicopter's new 430 test aircraft.

According to BAE, cables and other obstacles are common causes of helicopter accidents.  Based on its analysis of helicopter incidents since 1980, the company estimates that equipping the U.S. rotary-wing fleet with this capability would save the military more than $500 million over 10 years, and of course, more importantly, it could save lives as well.  05-11-2007.

Click here to become a registered Flt Tech Online subscriber and receive headlines delivered to your e-mail each week

Click here to go back to the headlines