Fort Worth, Texas – December 2025 – Collins Elbit Vision Systems (CEVS), a joint venture between Elbit Systems of America and Collins Aerospace, an RTX business, has successfully completed the Critical Design Review for its Zero-G Helmet Mounted Display System+ (HMDS+), marking a significant milestone in its development for the United States Navy.

 

The Zero-G HMDS+ has been tailored to meet U.S. Navy requirements under the Improved Joint Helmet-Mounted Cueing System (IJHMCS) programme. The initiative focuses on adapting and integrating the advanced helmet system into the F/A-18E/F Super Hornet and EA-18G Growler fleets, enhancing operational capability and aligning with evolving mission requirements.

 

A sixth-generation helmet-mounted display, the Zero-G HMDS+ provides aircrew with a fully immersive, high-definition view of the battlespace. The system enables rapid decision-making at high speeds by delivering superior situational awareness, supporting both mission effectiveness and survivability.

 

Captain Joseph Kamara, programme manager for Naval Aircrew Systems (PMA-202), highlighted the system’s contribution to aircrew safety, noting that the Zero-G integration promises to reduce neck and back strain while significantly improving ejection safety. He described the milestone as a critical step towards deploying advanced safety and operational technology for F/A-18 and EA-18 aircrew.

 

The Zero-G HMDS+ builds on CEVS’ experience delivering fourth- and fifth-generation helmet-mounted display systems. It combines combat-proven tracking and low-latency technologies with a next-generation display, fusing mission data, sensor video and weapon system information while also functioning as a primary flight instrument.

 

Elbit America President and Chief Executive Officer Luke Savoie described the system as providing sensor fusion at the edge, offering lightweight design alongside sixth-generation battle management capability. Collins Aerospace’s Daniel Karl, co-general manager of CEVS, said the successful design review confirms the system’s readiness to move into the next phase of development.

 

The programme will now proceed with airworthiness testing and full integration with aircraft avionics and mission systems. Initial operational capability is expected in 2027. The Zero-G HMDS+ is planned for fielding across all operational U.S. Navy and Royal Australian Air Force Super Hornets and Growlers, covering more than 750 aircraft.