Elbit Systems Ltd. (Nasdaq: ESLT; TASE: ESLT) US subsidiary Elbit Systems of America, LLC, announced that it completed flight tests of its SWORD obstacle warning system for helicopters.
The flight tests were conducted in collaboration with Elbit Systems Electro-Optics (ELOP) and Aviation Applied Technology Directorate (AATD), of the US Army Research, Development and Engineering Command. The tests were conducted under a Cooperative Research and Development Agreement (CRADA).
The SWORD is a Laser Radar (LADAR) that provides obstacle detection and real-time alerts to helicopter pilots flying at low altitudes and adverse weather conditions. For the purpose of the CRADA tests, the system was installed and flown on-board AATD's EH-60L helicopter.
The test reports said, "Results show that the SWORD system detects cables, poles and towers accurately with a low false alarm rate."
Elbit Systems of America president and CEO Raanan Horowitz said, “The SWORD system has the potential of improving flight safety and mitigating risks associated with the obstacles encountered by pilots flying in low altitudes and especially in urban environments. We will continue working with the US Army to refine the requirements and develop aircraft integration and installation approaches”.
Shares in Elbit Systems closed on Friday at $67.54.
Published by Globes [online], Israel business news - www.globes-online.com - on October 4, 2009
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