CONSTRAINTS and NEEDS in the Auditory and Vocal Environment of Modern Air Combat
Abstract
In modern air combat, it is mandatory for the pilot to be able to communicate with other jet fighters and to understand the flow of information coming into the cockpit. The coordination between aircraft must be as efficient as possible to build a common situational awareness (SA) and avoid any unexpected enemy attacks. In addition to the ambient noises in a jet fighter's cockpit, numerous sounds are used to allow pilots to minimize their visual checking of the main control panel, especially during dog fights. Pilots must be able to hear relevant transmissions above the noise in the cockpit. Environmental constraints in a fighter cockpit include load factors that can affect pilots' hearing capacity; flying at high speed and low altitude that generates heavy aerodynamic noise and affects radio transmissions and hearing; engine and air conditioning noise; radio jamming from enemy jamming stations that causes high noise levels; secure radios that use encrypted transmissions that are not easy to understand; and the use of two radio transmitters onboard, which can confuse the pilot. In beyond visual range (BVR) combat, visual aids are usually sufficient to help the pilot with his SA. But in within visual range (WVR) combat, like dog fights, the pilot may not be able to analyze visual information and will need audio alerts. Modern combat aircraft contain many audio alert devices like failure warning, crossing altitude warning, minimum fuel warning, and auto pilot disconnection warning. Because audio information can be caught at any time, head up, it is the best way to alert the pilot of a warning situation. To improve the noise ergonomics of modern fighter aircraft, designers must improve the quality of the radio transmitters; use preset (different) levels of sound from the two radio boxes; and prescribe the use of noise reduction headsets, 3D sound systems for WVR combat, an audio failure warning system, vocal command systems, and HQ radio.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 01, 2005
- Accession Number
- ADA455726
Entities
People
- Frederic Bigot