Dual-Use Self-Protection for Small to Mid-Sized Helicopters

Leonardo launched a new-generation dual-use laser anti-collision system for small to mid-sized platforms at Farnborough. The particularly compact Laser Obstacle Avoidance and Monitoring (LOAM-V2) system weighs only 13kg, and promptly detects the presence of small obstacles – such as cables as small as 5mm in diameter, pillars and structures – offering the crew an opportunity to modify altitude or direction.

The navigation aid acts as a radar-laser (LADAR), safely scanning the area around the flight path to collect real-time information, which is then processed to identify and classify obstacles and provide acoustic and visual warnings in sufficient time. To ensure the pilot has maximum situational awareness under various flight conditions, the system’s behaviour is optimised for flying at a higher cruising height on course or for approaching at lower speeds while hovering.

LOAM-V2 – developed by Leonardo from the experience acquired with the previous version operative on NH90, EH-101 and CH-47 helicopters – offers a unique ability to orient field of vision in order to guarantee broader coverage, thanks to ‘look-in-turn’ technology, permitting early detection of obstacles and the generation of appropriate warnings. When flying at low speeds, the system’s behaviour changes to provide up to 360⁰ coverage. The active sensor can be integrated with other active and passive sensors, such as radar, visual or IR fixed or adjustable video cameras, and systems based on static databases of obstacles and digital maps.