This paper describes the methods used and the operatinal experience gained in utilizing IR blade tip lights, as an alternative to complex electrical systems for helicopter rotor illumination. Utility and attack helicopters use formation-flight when flying in hostile territory. Flight is close to the ground without visible external lighting. communication between helicopters is limited to use of night vision goggles and FLIR. Loss of visual contact under these conditiosn may cause mid-air collision. Most helicopters have formation lights installed on the upper part of the fuselage. However, only a few large helicopters are equipped at production with blade tip lights in the visible wave length range. Modification of blades with electrically powered tip lights is difficult. Installation of new power lines along the blades and slip rings on the rotor head is impractical in most cases. IAI-MATA Helicopter's IR blade tip light unit is invisible without NVG> An AA size lithium battery operates the unit that is installled on the upper blade tip and is visible up to 300m without altering the blade performance. The light pattern produced by the IR system enables the NVG equipped pilots to immediately note any change in rotor disk attitude of the leading helicopter and to evaluate relative position; thus considerably reducing pilot stress.
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