"Power and versatility" - Key factors that make the Thales FMS200 Flight Management System a world leader

Can you give us some background into your experience using the FMS200?

James Sleigh: I joined Thales in 2008, and my first experience with the FMS200 family was the instantiation of the FMS240 version on the Sikorsky S-76D helicopter. I was also involved in the FMS220 integration into the Northrop Grumman UH-60V Blackhawk digital cockpit solution. Prior to that, I regularly used systems from other suppliers, so I had a lot of experience in this area. Bringing the Thales FMS to life on the S-76D allowed me to become very familiar with how the system works, both from an engineering and a pilot perspective.

What makes the FMS200 a world-beating FMS?

In short, this FMS is so powerful and versatile that it meets the differing needs of users, from ISR (Intelligence, Surveillance, Reconnaissance) to Search & Rescue. While most FMSs perform equivalent functions due to regulatory TSO certification, the FMS200 stands out due to its flexibility. Available as a software library, it offers the integrator the ability to tailor the system to specific mission requirements, optimizing human-machine interfaces and functionality for different aircraft types.

Another key differentiator is the FMS200’s ability to integrate with other systems, such as military mission computers. A prime example is its integration with Thales’s next-gen FlytX cockpit, which enables a seamless user experience for both IFR and VFR operations.

Finally, the revolutionary “dig-map” capability allows pilots to interact directly with the system via a digital map, transforming flight planning into an intuitive, graphical process.

Can the FMS200 be deployed on both civil and military platforms?

Absolutely! The FMS200 has a proven track record in civil aviation, but it’s also been successfully deployed on military platforms such as the US Army's UH-60V helicopter. It meets stringent airspace requirements while supporting complex military mission needs. Moreover, the system’s user-friendly displays make transitioning between tactical and civil navigation formats easy, minimizing the training impact for both civil and military operators.

The FMS200 is a standout product for its ability to meet the needs of both civil and military aviation, adapting seamlessly to a wide range of mission types. Whether it’s a transport helicopter on an IFR mission or a military team requiring complex tactical navigation, the system’s versatility is unmatched.