Survitec launches new micro liferaft
Global Survival Technology specialist Survitec has unveiled a ‘smaller and lighter single seat life raft’ (SSLR) to better equip military fast jet pilots on more challenging missions or when forced to eject from their aircraft over water
The Micro SSLR has been developed in response to increased requirements for a lighter and compact life raft, resulting in a 20 per cent reduction in weight. The life raft has over 50 per cent less packed volume than existing market products and as a result the pilot’s personal survival pack (PSP) has additional room available for mission-critical equipment.
Designed to form a critical component of a fighter pilot’s ejection seat, the Micro SSLR is created from the latest generation of advanced lightweight coated fabrics with an inflatable canopy and floor for maximum buoyancy and thermal insulation.
Continuous advances in fighter jet technology and the expansion of the operational envelope, such as in-flight refuelling, mean frontline aircraft can be operating over water, further from base and at higher altitudes, for much longer periods. Therefore, the range of survival equipment in the pilot’s PSP has also grown, making space and weight key considerations vitally important.
Building on extensive research and experience
Survitec, which supports three-quarters of the world’s fast jet platforms, has also developed a carry-on version of the Micro SSLR for other military aircraft types, including transporters and helicopters.
David Stelling, Category Manager, Survitec Defence & Aerospace, said: “The new Micro SSLR builds on our extensive experience and research in this sector to reveal a more compact, light-weight and robust life raft. The life raft has zero-maintenance capability delivering improved reliability and significantly reducing cost of ownership throughout the product’s life. After extensive seakeeping and performance trials the life raft is now available for all existing fast jet platforms, as well as new, emerging sixth generation fast jet programs.”
During flight the pilot is attached to the PSP, which is placed in the seat. In the event of an ejection from the aircraft, the ejection seat drops away and the PSP remains attached to the pilot and can be opened after landing in water. Once the pilot has boarded the Micro SSLR, the pilot can use the various survival aids provided including a personal locator beacon to indicate their location to rescue forces.
Survitec’s Aerospace & Defence team will be showcasing and demonstrating the Micro SSLR at the World Defense Show in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia at Booth G4.1 from 6-9 March 2022.