PARIS – Mercury Computer Systems (Chelmsford, Massachusetts) said it has concluded a contract with Raytheon SAS (Space and Airborne Systems) to deliver application-ready subsystems and integration services for Raytheon’s ADAS (Advanced Distributed Aperture System).
Raytheon claimed ADAS provides full spherical situational awareness to helicopter crews, allowing safer operation in unfavorable weather and mission environments. High-resolution infrared sensors mounted around the helicopter let pilots look through the airframe for 360-degree situational awareness. Imagery sent to helmet mounted displays provides crew members with information adjusted to their specific roles. The wraparound effect is completed by a 3D audio system that issues threat alerts and crew communications from the direction of their source.
MH-60 with Raytheon ADAS system installed for demonstration (Source: Raytheon)
BAE helmet mounted display used in ADAS demonstrations (Source: Raytheon)
Under the terms of the contract, Mercury said it will provide an advanced sensor processing subsystem as part of Raytheon’s MIP (Multi-function Image Processor), and systems integration services to help Raytheon improve operational capabilities, allowing aircrews to achieve objectives with the lowest possible risk.
Mercury specified that it will provide a high-performance sensor processing subsystem that includes FPGAs, GPGPUS and GPPs, interconnected with high-speed switch fabrics. Ruggedized for harsh and mobile helicopter environments, the system will help improve mission effectiveness and flight safety at low altitude, in poor visibility and in hostile environments. The standards-based OpenVPX system is meant to allow for rapid future technology insertions either in terms of processing capabilities or handling new sensors or new modalities, the company said.
This story was originally posted by EE Times.
