Elop has begun static tests of its Laser Obstacle Ranging & Display System (LORD) laser radar for helicopters. The company, a subsidiary of Elbit Systems, last year won an Israeli air force contract to develop LORD. The air force wants the system to improve the operational envelope of its helicopters, warning of wires and antennas during low-level and bad-weather operations.
LORD provides video and audio warnings, Elop says. The system is designed around a fast-scanning, narrow-beam width, eye-safe laser sweeping ahead of the helicopter, building up an image of the area ahead of the machine. The 30° horizontal and vertical sweep allows obstacles to be detected at 700m (2,300ft), says the company.
Source: Flight International