IAI unveils Collision Warning System

Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) has developed a new Collision Warning System (CWS) for military aircraft, the company announced on 22 November.

The system is designed to warn pilots of military aircraft – including 4th and 5th generation fighter jets, training aircraft, military helicopters and remotely piloted aircraft - of proximity and risk of collision with commercial and civilian aircraft. Monitoring is performed through integration of identification friend/foe (IFF) and automatic dependent surveillance – broadcast (ADS-B). 

The CWS provides a complete air situational picture with warnings visible only to the military pilot – no indications are provided to civilian aircraft. Warnings are provided via a voice warning, graphical indication on a tablet panel and symbols presented on existing cockpit displays (MPD/MFD). The CWS is embedded in existing or new EHUD/ RAIDS/FRP systems, or carried as a stand-alone pod, which requires only a single interface unit and minimal integration into the aircraft.

By plotting existing and projected flight paths of all aircraft flying in the area, the system identifies potential collisions and warns the pilot in advance of such events. Among the data processed are the flight characteristics and maneuverability of each fighter jet, which are profoundly different from those of civilian aircraft. Warnings are therefore generated only when a clear and imminent danger exists.

Jacob Galifat, general manager of the IAI/MALAM division, said: ‘The growing congestion of the airspace and lack of integration between military and civil air spaces require new, independent solutions to prevent collisions. Such systems will improve flight safety without compromising operational freedom.'