French military pilots could soon fly deeper into low-visibility missions with Thales’ new TopOwl DD helmet, which brings a digital display (DD) directly into combat operations.
The device combines enhanced terrain vision with data pulled from onboard sensors and cameras, aided by special components that amplify ambient light around an aircraft.
This gives pilots greater resilience in challenging conditions, from dust clouds and fog to thick snow or near-total darkness.
Thales envisions the TopOwl DD to sharpen the situational awareness of aerial crews while improving their safety in dangerous operations.
It pairs with a Thales-built headset that streams high-resolution video, along with Safran’s Eurofl’Eye system, which fuses augmented reality and spatial alerts to reduce pilot workload.
A NATO-Backed Upgrade
The helmet is being developed under a contract with the NATO Helicopter Management Agency (NAHEMA), aimed at giving NH90 pilots smarter tools and enhanced flight capabilities.
Built in partnership with NHIndustries (NHI) and Safran, the program reflects a joint push to deliver next-gen defense tech for France’s Directorate General of Armaments (DGA).
“By choosing the TopOwl DD, NAHEMA confirms the leading role of this helmet, recognized by helicopter crews for enhancing operational performance and safety,” Thales Flight Avionics Vice President Florent Chauvancy said.
“This contract further strengthens the strategic partnership between Thales, DGA, NAHEMA, and NH Industries, all committed to equipping the armed forces with cutting-edge technologies designed for the most challenging operational environments.”
