Apache Aviator Visual Experiences With the IHADSS Helmet-Mounted Display in Operation Iraqi Freedom

Abstract : The US Army's AH-64 Apache attack helicopter has been fielded since the early 1980's (Figure 1). There are currently two models (A & D) of the Apache. The latter D-model differs primarily from the A-model in cockpit design and the addition of a mast-mounted millimeter radar system. The AH-64 is a tandem-seated aircraft with the pilot occupying the rear seat and the copilot/gunner occupying the front seat. Both pilots fly and perform fire-control procedures using a monocular helmet-mounted display (HMD) known as the li%tegrated Helmet and Display Sighting System (IHADSS) (Figure 2). The IHADSS provides pilotage and fire-control imagery from separate forward-looking infrared (FLIR) sensors mounted on the nose of the aircraft. Flight symbology is integrated (embedded) into the HMD imagery. The FLIR sensor that provides the pilotage imagery is known as the Pilot's Night Vision System (PNVS); the FLIR sensor that provides the fire-control imagery is known as the Target Acquisition and Designation System (TAD S).