The Scorpion HMD will replace the existing Joint Helmet Mounted Cueing System (JHMCS) currently in use. Offering a digital platform with full-colour symbology, the new system provides a single display suitable for both day and night operations, greatly enhancing pilot situational awareness.
Central to the upgrade is the integration of TDSI’s precision tracking system, the Hybrid Optically based Inertial Tracker (HObIT), which improves tracking accuracy through a combination of inertial and optical technologies. This advancement supports real-time decision-making by ensuring that critical flight data remains within the pilot’s line of sight.
Jim Geraghty, Vice President of Visionix at Thales, highlighted the significance of the technology, stating: “Modernisation efforts around helmet-mounted displays for aircraft are essential to pilots as they provide critical real-time information directly in their line of sight, enhancing situational awareness, decision-making, and operational efficiency.” He added, “Already supporting F-16 Air National Guard pilots with superior awareness and tracking capability, Scorpion kits will now enhance holistic USAF air dominance.”
This initial contract is expected to be followed by further delivery orders as part of the broader F-16 modernisation programme. Additionally, the agreement includes an option for other NATO F-16 users to procure similarly configured Scorpion HMD kits.
The first deliveries of the Scorpion kits to the USAF are expected in late 2025. Thales Visionix, a division of TDSI, will oversee management and implementation of the contract.
