Johannesburg - Pilots of export models of the Swedish Gripen fighter aircraft are to wear a helmet partly developed in South Africa, according to an agreement signed at the Paris Air Show in France yesterday.

"Saab Aerospace & BAE Systems signed an agreement for a new Integrated Helmet Mounted Display System (IHMD) for the Gripen at the Paris Air Show," the two companies said in a statement.

The helmet enables pilots to view, lock and fire on targets using a built-in-display.

"The helmet allows greater situational awareness and enables the pilot to react more quickly than has previously been possible," the companies said.

BAE Systems developed the helmet in partnership with South Africa's Cumulus, a division of Denel's Kentron missile business.

The development is the direct result of the offset agreement between Saab-BAE Systems and the South African government as a result of the latter's purchase of the Gripen, as well as the Hawk, another fighter.

"The helmet is a further development and refinement of the Striker helmet developed for the Eurofighter by BAE Systems. The Gripen Helmet System will now be marketed under the name Cobra," the statement said.

Lord Bach, Britain's minister of state defence procurement, said the three-way partnership between Saab, BAE Systems and Cumulus was "another milestone on the road to greater co-operation between our defence industries. This kind of partnership delivers real technological and economic benefits to our countries".

Gripen programme head, Johan Lehander, said Saab chose the Cobra as it was the best technology available.

"South African pilots at Saab have tested the helmet and are very pleased with it. I think in the future all our customers will want the system, as it provides such a clear edge in air combat.

"Sweden is currently evaluating the system and we are looking forward to a tendering request later this year," Lehander said.

With acknowledgements to Sapa and the Cape Times.