Raytheon’s [RTN] Boomerang shooter detection-location technology that saves lives on the ground has been adapted for use on helicopters to help save aircrews.
BBN Technologies, a wholly owned Raytheon subsidiary, has been providing Boomerang detection-location systems for vehicles, fixed sites and as a soldier-wearable system for the United States and its allies since 2003.
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| Boomerang Photo: Raytheon |
“Helicopters are inherently vulnerable, but they also have the ability to maneuver quickly and aggressively when fire is detected,” said Dave Schmitt, director of Boomerang Products at Raytheon BBN Technologies. “Boomerang Air immediately gives crews the information they need to move out of harm’s way and successfully complete their mission.
Helicopters are vulnerable to sniper attacks because of their low-altitude flight paths and hovering requirements. But shooter-detection systems are complex, and the physics much more difficult for air vehicles because of the noise, vibration, and range of motion involved.
Boomerang Air incorporates BBN’s proven computer-based signal processing, adapted for the rotary wing environment, and auditory and visual indications to detect and report relative shooter azimuth and elevation information.
The company spent some six years adjusting the technology and algorithms to come up with right solution.
The platform independent system has been tested and deployed on UH-60 Black Hawk and CH-47 Chinook helicopters.