Improving the field of view for the next generation of US Army Black Hawk helicopters

The results of a study pertaining to the field-of-view (FOV) of the US Army UH-60A Black Hawk helicopter are presented. The study involved a comprehensive review of Army requirement documents, existing FOV studies, and accidental data. Close attention was given to the dynamic flight characteristics that effect FOV. The study team collected technical data related to rotary wing aircraft design, in general, and the UH-60A design, in particular; conducted a survey of UH-60A pilots; and interviewed users and other technical experts. The study revealed that the current UH-60A design meets the requirements of MIL-STD 850B under static conditions. The only exception is the obstructed view that the door and windshield vertical structures create. However, under dynamic conditions the UH-60A design and normal flight characteristics substantially reduce the FOV in critical areas. Eleven options are identified that can improve and/or enhance the next-generation Black Hawk´s FOV if incorporated into the design. Each option is presented and discussed