BAE Systems has unveiled a new lightweight, compact Head-Up Display (HUD) for use in commercial and military aircraft. LiteWave is a laptop-sized HUD mounted above the pilot’s head which presents critical information, such as direction, altitude and speed, directly in their line of sight.

Being 70% smaller and lighter than a traditional HUD, LiteWave can be fitted in aircraft with even the most limited cockpit space. It is also up to 80% faster to install and its simple design makes maintenance quicker and cheaper.

Powered by BAE Systems’ revolutionary, patented waveguide technology, LiteWave can be easily adjusted to suit any individual flying position and allows the pilot to maintain excellent situational awareness, even during poor weather or at night.

Lee Tomlinson, director of HUD products at BAE Systems’ Electronic Systems business, said: “LiteWave can be fitted into virtually any cockpit in the world. Our engineers have created a digital display that is smaller, lighter and uses less power than any other HUDs. It has the potential to revolutionise the market and make HUD technology far more accessible.”

LiteWave marks the next stage in bringing ‘state of the art’ digital technology to the marketplace, and is now available to begin flight trials for future customers on commercial and military aircraft.

The new lightweight HUB is manufactured at BAE Systems’ Electronic Systems site in Rochester which has innovated and invested in cockpit displays for over 60 years. The company has produced more than 15,000 HUDs, which are in service on more than 50 different aircraft types in more than 50 countries globally. This includes some of the most advanced and demanding military aircraft, such as the Eurofighter Typhoon, F-16 Fighting Falcon and F-22 Raptor.