Vision Systems International, LLC (VSI), a leader in advanced Helmet Mounted Display (HMD) technology, has received several new contracts with a total value of $54.1 million.

The Lockheed Martin Corporation awarded VSI a contract for the delivery of 52 F-35 Gen II Helmet Mounted Displays and 30 aircraft shipsets in support of the F-35 Lightning II Helmet Mounted Display System (HMDS) program. VSI also received contracts for production tooling and initial funding for the Pilot Fit Facility Standup at Eglin Air Force Base for the HMDS program.

Under the low rate initial production (LRIP) contract, VSI will provide HMDS hardware and production tooling for the LRIP 1, 2 and 3 acquisitions. This procurement fills initial U.S. government domestic requirements for the U.S. Air Force F-35A, U.S. Marine Corps F-35B and U.S. Navy F 35C platforms, as well as some foreign military sales production commitments. LRIP deliveries will commence this year and continue through 2012.

"With this first HMD LRIP contract for the F-35, VSI is now delivering the world's most advanced helmet display for the latest fifth generation fighter," said VSI President Drew Brugal. "The system provides the F-35 warfighter with unmatched situational awareness throughout the operational profile of the jet. By keeping 'eyes out' while viewing all critical information and video on the helmet visor, the pilot has a significant advantage in both air-to-air and air-to-ground mission execution."

The F-35 Gen II HMDS displays biocular video and symbology information on the helmet visor providing the pilot with all information necessary to execute both day and night missions under a single integrated configuration. The system enables the pilot to accurately cue onboard weapons and sensors by looking at enemy aircraft and ground targets with the helmet display. The HMD also allows the aircraft systems to alert the pilot of potential threats and hazards, significantly improving situational awareness. Advanced night imagery is provided by the helmet mounted night camera and aircraft Distributed Aperture System (DAS). The F-35 Gen II HMDS's accuracy and very low latency allows it to become the HUD replacement. The F-35 is the first front line tactical aircraft in decades that does not have a traditional HUD. The HMDS is the "virtual" HUD of the aircraft, reducing aircraft weight and improving aircraft affordability.