The shiny new merlin (50 hours on the clock) that the danish had on static at RIAT yesterday looks the biz for CSAR. Flir SAFIRE II optics, laser wire detector (plus cutters) + ground avoidance, all the correct bulges and patched for ASE/DAS (for their troop carrying role), wireless intercomm for winch ops, a loudspeaker system, SAT comms and mobile phone antenna etc etc. Get rid of the lime green patches and it is on the right track. Not sure if the radar on the nose has full terrain following capability or just sea modes. Anyone know?
The power of the search engine.
The Danish EH101s are fitted with the Telephonics RDR-1600 search and weather avoidance radar, which includes five operation modes. With a 60-degree scan angle and 28-degree per second scan rate, the radar can detect beacons and surface targets, perform ground mapping, observe weather and give weather alerts. For precision landings--say, on an offshore oil platform--the radar contains a narrow-pulse mode, allowing a minimum detection range of 450 feet (137 meters). The radar display is presented on any of the IDUs, where the FMS navigation waypoints can be overlaid.
The RDAF thermal imaging systems have a dual-control capability. The operator of the console in the starboard rear compartment can monitor various sensor displays, including one for the FLIR. However, the FLIR master switch is in the cockpit's center console, allowing the flight crew to take over the sensor's control if necessary or beneficial. "Often the pilots have a better peripheral view and can better steer the [FLIR] turret to the target. After directing the system [using a `coolie-hat'-shaped knob], they can hand over control to the operator in back," explains Van der Spuy, describing one purpose for the dual control. The Star SAFIRE II's range can vary, depending on conditions. However, under ideal conditions [relatively calm seas], it should help spot a person's warm body bobbing in cold water at about 8,200 feet (2,500 meters).