New ICEMAN Project Seeks Answers to Fighter Pilot Disorientation [Health Matters]

Abstract

Overview

The article emphasizes the significant research gaps concerning electromagnetic field (EMF) exposure in fighter pilot cockpits. Due to operational conditions, pilots are often subjected to intense radiofrequency (RF) and microwave radar pulses.

Findings

• The ambient RF-EM field levels in fighter aircraft cockpits are inadequately characterized, necessitating quantitative measurements.
• Two primary auditory responses can affect pilot cognition when exposed to high-power microwave pulses: microwave auditory effect and acoustically induced startle reflex.

Conclusion

Current understanding stems from theoretical approaches backed by limited experimental data. It’s stressed that more neurophysiological and psychophysical studies on microwave-exposed animals are crucial to fully appreciate the impacts on behavioral and performance responses of pilots.