The TopOwl Digital Display helmet represents an evolution of the combat-proven TopOwl system and enables pilots to operate in all conditions of degraded visibility. It supports missions in dust clouds, fog, snow or extremely dark nights by synthesising terrain vision with data from mission and flight sensors, cameras and improved light intensifier tubes.
Developed by Thales, the TopOwl DD headset integrates high-definition mission camera video feeds, including Safran’s Eurofl’Eye, combined with augmented reality and spatial alerts. These features are designed to enhance situational awareness, reduce pilot workload and significantly improve safety during low-altitude or low-visibility operations.
The helmet is developed and manufactured at the Thales campus in Bordeaux and refined in cooperation with defence industry stakeholders and operational forces. It is tailored to each pilot’s physiology, offering a precise fit that reduces fatigue during extended missions or demanding operational conditions.
According to Florent Chauvancy, Vice President of Flight Avionics at Thales, “By choosing the TopOwl DD, NAHEMA confirms the leading role of this helmet, recognized by helicopter crews for enhancing operational performance and safety.” He added, “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.”
Source: Thales (press release).
