Replacement Head Up Display Will Increase Pilot Situational Awareness, Company Says

A contract for the development of the C-17 Replacement Head Up Display ("RHUD") for the United States Air Force has been awarded to the U.S. subsidiary of Elbit Systems from The Boeing Company  The contract also contains options for Recurring Production, Depot Support and Repairs.

The C-17 provides rapid strategic delivery of troops and cargo to main operating bases as well as tactical airlift and airdrop operations within a theatre of operations. The collective efforts of Boeing and Elbit Systems of America will provide the United States Air Force with a new C-17 RHUD that will enhance the ability of the aircraft to fulfill the United States' worldwide air mobility requirements.

With the C-17 HUD operator in mind, Elbit Systems of America has incorporated growth provisions that will provide the foundation for sensor fusion and other enhancements, to increase approach stability and pilot's situational awareness in critical phases of flight during reduced visibility conditions. The RHUD enhancements also increase ease of maintenance, enhanced reliability and mitigation of obsolescence. The RHUD Projector Unit features an advanced optical design with a wide field of view. The design incorporates a Digital Image Source (DIS), optimizing image quality and performance across many interrelating properties. The HUD Computer Unit (CU) design includes cutting edge processing and graphic capabilities built using Elbit Systems' history of expertise developing display electronics. The HUD CU contains a service-port to access and acquire Built-in-Test results directly from the Shop Replacement Unit level, reducing unnecessary removals. It is located in the equipment rack providing easy maintenance and access to system health parameters.

Elbit Systems of America, President and CEO, Raanan Horowitz added: "We at Elbit Systems of America are proud to have been selected to incorporate our leading HUD technology into the world's most advanced airlift aircraft. The selection by Boeing is a testimony to our world class capabilities and dedication to supporting those who contribute daily to the safety and security of the United States."

FMI: www.elbit.co.il