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Saab and BAE sign agreement for Gripen IHMD system
The new helmet enables the pilot to view, lock and fire on targets using the helmet display. The helmet allows greater situation awareness, and enables the pilot to react more quickly than has previously been possible. The helmet system will be redesigned due to the difference in size between the Gripen and the Eurofighter. The first tests on the new helmet will be conducted in 2005 and deliveries to South Africa will begin in 2007. BAE SYSTEMS, in partnership with South Africa's Cumulus, has developed the system capability. Integration of the technology has been made possible under offset agreement connected to Saab-BAE SYSTEMS with the South Africa's Government Hawk and Gripen procurement. The helmet is a further development and refinement of the Striker helmet developed for the Eurofighter by BAE SYSTEMS. The Gripen Helmet System will now be marketed under the name of Cobra. Lord Bach, Minister of State Defence Procurement said, "This three way partnership between defence companies in the UK, Sweden and South Africa is another milestone on the road to greater co-operation between our defence industries. This kind of partnership delivers real technological and economic benefits to our countries." "Saab has chosen the best technology available. Together with our partners from BAE SYSTEMS, we will develop this cutting edge system," said Johan Lehander, Head of Gripen at Saab Aerospace. "South African pilots at Saab have tested the helmet and are very pleased with it. I think that in the future all our customers will want the system, as it provides such a clear edge in air combat. Sweden is currently evaluating the system and we are looking forward to a tendering request later this year." IHMD is currently available as an option in the export version of the Gripen and South Africa is the first customer to order the system.
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Saab Aerospace and BAE SYSTEMS have signed an agreement for a new Integrated Helmet Mounted Display System (IHMD) for the Gripen. The agreement will enable the IHMD to be integrated into the Gripen fighters and be delivered to South Africa from in 2007.