Thales Develops Flush-Mounted Helicopter Light for Improved Visibility

Thales has introduced a new Search and Landing Light system designed to enhance helicopter visibility and operational flexibility across civil, security, search-and-rescue, and military missions.

The new system combines 360-degree illumination coverage with a compact, flush-mounted design intended to reduce aerodynamic drag. This configuration eliminates illumination dead zones, allowing crews to direct light continuously around the aircraft without repositioning.

Built on a software-defined and connected architecture, the light can be configured for specific mission needs and integrated with onboard equipment, including forward-looking infrared systems and helmet-mounted displays. This connectivity aims to improve situational awareness and crew coordination.

The high-power LED system can be operated by the pilot, co-pilot, or hoist operator, providing greater flexibility for crews in low-light or difficult terrain conditions. It is designed to support rapid scanning of wide areas and sustained illumination of survivors and landing zones during search and rescue operations.

The Search and Landing Light also includes covert operating modes for night tactical missions, designed to minimize visual and infrared detectability while maintaining necessary illumination for operational tasks.