Skydivers Need To Stay On Course, Too!

Rockwell Collins tells ANN the Cedar Rapids, IA-based company has taken its Global Positioning System (GPS) expertise to new heights with the introduction of ParaNav, a helmet mounted navigation system for parachutists.

ParaNav is a personal, GPS-based, flight management system with an integrated head-up display. It provides parachutists with accurate navigation capabilities and enhanced situational awareness, allowing them to fly to their designated landing zones. The system also allows the parachutist to divert to alternate sites with the same level of accuracy.

Rockwell Collins announced the launch of ParaNav at the Defence Systems & Equipment International Exhibition in London.

"ParaNav is the only helmet mounted system in the market that has undergone test and evaluation," said Ron Hornish, vice president and general manager of Sensor Systems for Rockwell Collins. "ParaNav has proven its effectiveness in more than 100 test jumps at maximum altitudes of 28,000 feet and at temperatures of 20 degrees below zero."

Rockwell Collins developed the first generation military Global Positioning System (GPS) user equipment in 1979 and continues its leadership through advancements in radio navigation and GPS receiver technology, Hornish added.

Rockwell Collins is participating in ongoing evaluations of the ParaNav system with potential military customers.

FMI: www.rockwellcollins.com