Elbit unit VSI gets Boeing helmet, visor deal

JERUSALEM Aug 3 (Reuters) - Israeli defence contractor Elbit Systems (ESLT.O) (ESLT.TA) said on Sunday its Vision Systems International (VSI) unit received a $17 million contract from Boeing (BA.N) to supply helmets and visors to 145 F-15E fighter jet pilots.

The contract includes dual-seat capable Joint Helmet Mounted Cueing System (JHMCS) hardware and pilot equipment to include helmets and visors. Initial deliveries have already commenced and will continue through mid-2009, Elbit said in a statement.

The JHMCS provides the pilot with "first look, first shot" high off-boresight weapons engagement capabilities, it said.

The system enables the pilot to accurately cue onboard weapons and sensors against enemy aircraft and ground targets without the need to aggressively turn the aircraft or place the target in the Head-Up Display (HUD) for designation.

Critical information and symbology, such as targeting cues and aircraft performance parameters, are graphically displayed directly on the pilot's visor. This information, combined with the display of data-link cues, as well as navigational and aircraft performance parameters, provides the pilot with an increase in situational awareness.

VSI is a joint venture between Elbit unit, Elbit Systems of America, and Rockwell Collins (COL.N). (Reporting by Steven Scheer; Editing by Louise Heavens)