Recommendation:
ANG F-22 pilots require a night vision compatible, color helmet-mounted display (HMD). Multiple simulations and an operational utility assessment conducted by the 422nd Test and Evaluation Squadron demonstrated that using an HMD provides a distinct first- shot, first-kill advantage. Although this advantage applies to within-visual-range engagements, the HMD also substantially increases friend and foe situational awareness during beyond-visual-range intercepts. HMD technology provides the capability to cue and verify high-off-boresight (HOBS) sensor and weapon information through the display of weapons employment zones and visual cues of target and friendly aircraft locations. Originally conceived as a weapons cueing system, the HMD has evolved into a force multiplier because of its ability to enhance situational awareness during all phases of flight and across all mission sets. For example, the HMD provides threat information visual cues while the pilot is "eyes-out" of the cockpit, warning of dangers and providing critical information to allow the pilot to maneuver the aircraft away from terrain or threats. Similarly, F-22s tasked with identifying targets of interest during homeland defense missions would be better able to quickly and efficiently visually locate and identify small aircraft, unmanned systems, and cruise missiles. Lack of an HMD limits the lethality of the F-22 and puts the aircraft at a disadvantage in certain situations against less formidable and less capable aircraft. The acquisition of an HMD for each ANG F-22 aircraft will greatly increase the lethality and survivability of the F-22.