In December 1996 AGI were contracted by the Ministry of Defence to design and develop an Improved Approach Lighting (IAL) system in preparation for its introduction into Royal Navy service.

The AGI Deck Edge Lighting System is available fitted with either ELP or LED lighting panels, both types offering the following features:

Night Vision Goggle compatible
Thin in profile, which is particularly important for the centre deck fittings
Robust
Non glaring even light output
High in efficiency, low power consumption
Viewing Distance (intensity)

There are four types of fitting that have been specified for the lighting system:

600mm and 1200mm Standard Fittings
600mm and 1200mm Ramped Fittings
The maximum height of each fitting is 30 mm to minimise the trip hazard to personnel on deck.

The patterns of light panels specified for the various vessels which are to be fitted with the IAL system, are the result of work by the Defence Research Agency on a flight deck simulator at Bedford and extensive sea trials performed in January 1994 and October 1996.

These trials have shown that intermittent strips of light, on horizontal and vertical surfaces of the ship, provide the pilot with good visual cues identifying the ship’s shape and depth as well as relative motion between the ship and helicopter.

The principles of symmetry, parallax, foreshortening and perspective have all been used to full advantage to provide the pilot with information on relative motion and relative position, in all three dimensions during approach and landing.

As the pilot approaches the ship he will see the strips of light, which define the deck edges, ships stern and periphery of hangar/superstructure.

During final approach and landing the pilot will have the benefit of the Illuminated Stabilised Horizon Bar, the hangar and above hangar lighting as well as the vertical and horizontal lighting which defines the landing position.

This advanced configuration of Deck Edge lighting is used in conjunction with Conventional Deck Flood lighting.