The F-35 will be taught to avoid collisions in the sky — the new system is already being tested at Edwards Air Base

F-35

American and British engineers and pilots are now actively testing a new safety system for the fifth-generation F—35 Lightning II fighter jet - and it is designed to solve one of the most dangerous problems in aviation: the risk of an airborne collision. The Collision Avoidance Manual Deconfliction (CAMD) system is called, and its main purpose is to help the F-35 pilot safely maneuver in congested airspace, especially where both military and civilian aircraft fly.

The tests are being conducted at Edwards Air Force Base in California, the holy of holies of American aircraft development, where the most advanced technologies are tested. There, experts simulate complex aerial scenarios: sudden maneuvers, rendezvous with other aircraft, and flights near civilian routes. CAMD analyzes radar data, warning systems, and position data from other aircraft in real time, and then tells the pilot how to safely change course or altitude to avoid a collision.

What is important is that the system is being developed jointly by the United States and the United Kingdom. British specialists are actively involved in the design and testing, because the F-35 is an international project, and the UK is one of the key partners. Such cooperation accelerates implementation and increases compatibility between the allied Air forces.

Although the F-35 is already equipped with advanced surveillance and warning systems, CAMD goes further.: It doesn't just signal a threat, but suggests specific de—escalation actions, such as "descend 500 feet" or "make a 30-degree right turn." This is especially critical during training flights, near borders or in conditions of limited airspace.

Pilots note that CAMD makes flights not only safer, but also less stressful, especially when there is a lot of equipment around and the situation is developing rapidly. The system works as a "second opinion" from a computer that can save lives.

While CAMD is undergoing the final stages of testing, it is already clear: This is an important step towards ensuring that the F-35 can fly confidently where previously strict restrictions were required.