High wires and low fliers: new technology targets old conflict
Safety device manufacturers are striving to offer better obstacle detection equipment to confront the dangers of collisions with obstacles and especially w

Safety device manufacturers are striving to offer better obstacle detection equipment to confront the dangers of collisions with obstacles and especially wires. Options range from expensive systems that provide greatly enhanced situational awareness to lower-cost systems with more limited functionality.

Germany-based EADS Defence and Security offers helicopter laser radar (Hellas), a system that scans the area in front of the helicopter with a laser beam capable of detecting wires at distances of up to 3,300 feet. According to the company, the system can also warn of obstacles such as towers, trees, cables and phone lines.

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