A new pilot helmet with three integrated technologies for improved situational awareness has been issued to a Norwegian F-35 pilot for the first time.

The U.S. Air Force reports that the Generation III F-35 Helmet Mounted Display System from Rockwell Collins was given to the in-training F-35 pilot late last week at Luke Air Force Base in Arizona.

The helmet incorporates improved night vision, optics and liquid-crystal displays.

The heads-up display usually projected onto on a piece of glass at the front of the cockpit is on the helmet itself. Data such as horizon, speed, weapon status and altitude are displayed on the helmet visor so they are always in the pilot's field of vision.

Night vision capability -- including infrared -- is built in so no need for special goggles.

"By integrating three advanced technologies, helmet-mounted display, head up display and visor projected night vision, the Generation III helmet allows the F-35 to become the first tactical fighter jet in 50 years without a traditional Head-Up Display system," the Air Force said.

The new helmet is made of carbon fiber material, weighs just five pounds and is custom fitted for the pilot.

Rolls-Royce supplying engine improvement kits to USAF
Indianapolis (UPI) Oct 21, 2015 - Rolls-Royce will begin supplying the U.S. Air Force with kits in December to improve the engines of C-130 transport aircraft.

The T56 Series 3.5 engine upgrade kits, being supplied under a $36 million contract, enable T56 engines to operate at much lower temperatures, resulting in a 22 percent extension to the life of engine parts and improved reliability.

The kits have already been installed on WP-3D aircraft of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and have resulted in more than a 12 percent reduction in fuel costs, Rolls-Royce said.

"The T56 Series 3.5 technology has proven itself in challenging hurricane flight operations on NOAA aircraft and we are excited to launch the upgrades into the US Air Force C-130 fleet so they can achieve the same benefits," said Phil Burkholder, the president of Rolls-Royce Defense Aerospace North America.

"The improved fuel economy and enhanced performance demonstrate the value from the Series 3.5 upgrade -- operators will benefit from lower operating costs and improved reliability."

Rolls-Royce said the kits can be added to the Air Force and Air National Guard planes during regular overhauls and require no changes to the aircraft or its controls.