In the midst of a swirling dogfight, the fighter pilot who can react quicker than his opponents will stay alive. The ability to locate targets and bring weapons to bear is the business of the fighter pilot and modern technology is dramatically transforming how well he does his job.
Advanced seekers mean the missiles can detect targets approaching the side of the launch aircraft.
To allow these targets to be engaged many nations have launched programmes to field helmet-mounted sights or displays. The pilot only needs to look at a target and then press a couple of buttons on his control stick to launch a missile. The whole process of a missile engagement can take a few seconds. Helmet-mounted displays are now considered 'must have' equipment for fourth generation combat aircraft, such as the Saab Gripen. The system, comprising a monocular helmet with integral colour camera, helmet display electronics unit and an optical head tracker was integrated at PO Glasgow and is now installed in a Gripen simulator.