Collins Elbit Vision Systems has completed the Critical Design Review for its Zero-G Helmet Mounted Display System Plus under the US Navy’s Improved Joint Helmet Mounted Cueing System programme.
The joint venture between Elbit Systems of America and Collins Aerospace confirmed the milestone covers integration of the sixth generation helmet system on the F/A-18E F Super Hornet and EA 18G-Growler fleets. The programme aims to adapt and field the Zero-G system in line with US Navy operational requirements.
Immersive Technology
The Zero-G Helmet Mounted Display System + is designed to provide a fully immersive, high-definition view of the battlespace, enabling aircrew to make rapid decisions at high speed. The system fuses mission data, sensor video and weapon system information, while also functioning as a primary flight instrument.
Captain Joseph Kamara, Naval Aircrew Systems PMA 202 programme manager, said: “Aircrew health and safety is our number one priority. The Zero-G being integrated through our IJHMCS program promises to relieve aircrew of neck and back strain and greatly improve ejection safety. We are excited to be at the leading edge of safety and technology, and this important milestone is a critical step toward deploying this capability for our F/A-18 and EA-18 aircrew.”
According to the company, the system combines combat tested tracking and low latency technologies with a new display architecture, while maintaining a lightweight design intended to reduce physical strain on pilots.
Lightweight Sensor Fusion
Luke Savoie, president and chief executive of Elbit Systems of America and a board member of the joint venture, said: “Zero-G is providing sensor fusion at the edge. This system is critical technology, while remaining lightweight. As fighter aircraft level-up, the HMDs of those systems need to as well. Zero-G provides unmatched head-up, sixth-generation battle management capabilities.”
Daniel Karl, co general manager of the joint venture at Collins Aerospace, added: “When our team began working on the Zero-G HMDS+, our goal was to provide aircrew with the safest, most advanced helmet system on the market. This milestone confirms our helmet is ready for the next phase of development and brings us one step closer to delivering this advanced capability to naval aviators.”
The programme will now move into airworthiness testing and full integration with aircraft avionics and mission systems. Initial operational capability is expected in 2027. The system is planned for deployment across all operational US Navy and Royal Australian Air Force Super Hornet and Growler aircraft, covering more than 750 platforms.
