Helmet Mounted Sights and Displays

[Dinges]

I am starting this thread in lieu of what I read earlier in the Russian Photo Thread where there was a tepid discussion on who was first and best etc. etc.

I wish this thread to be a gentlemanly discussion on the topic with members adding value with well thought arguments and facts.

If my facts are wrong please enlighten me.



HMS/D's are by definition and initial design not the same thing:

HMS: A system of cueing plane/helicopter offensive capabilities onto an OPFOR element.

HMD: A platform integrated system of real-time information management and application of platform capabilities.



I will start with what I know. The SADF. The SAAF started research on a HMS in 1975 with technology gleaned from then the American AIM-9B Sidewinder and then progressed into the V3B missile and integrated HMS that was operational in 1979 and of which 450 missiles were produced.

There is always speculation on who was first , but I believe it to be the US Navy's VTAS system.

The HMS and Missiles:







And some specs

[Dinges]

If this should be in Equipment and Gear - Mods please move.

[Elbs]

The Honeywell VTAS entered service in 1969 with the USN's F-4N and F-4Js. They were used with the AIM-9G Sidewinder. There were some problems with the lack of visual cues to the pilot, but the reading I've done seems to indicate the pilots liked it. In any case, improvements in the reliability of long range BVR weapons seemed to have killed it off.

VTAS I