HeliMedia was at Helitech displaying its video mission box (VMB), a portable unit able to transmit live video over more than 100 nm thanks to microwave technology. For example, an Italian operator, Helica, has connected it to a full-HD 1080p camera.

Inside the helicopter, the VMB replaces one seat, using existing mounting points. It is easily transferrable from one aircraft to another, explained Steve Watson, business development manager of the Cheltenham, UK-based company. With two technicians the process takes approximately two hours, he estimated.

Since first delivery in 2009, HeliMedia has improved the system and now offers new mission system software by Canadian specialist CarteNav. It provides multiple map layers and can interface with all sensors. For example, on a live HD infrared image, it can overlay red boxes on any moving targets in the scene in real time.

HeliMedia’s VMB sells from $120,000. Watson said he has five customers, including Helica, Australia-based fire surveillance expert HeliWest, the UK National Grid and the UK Ministry of Defence.