Aviation Survivability

The Aviation Survivability program, part of the Navy's Research, Development, Test & Evaluation efforts, is dedicated to enhancing aircrew and platform protection against emerging threats. This initiative aims to improve combat effectiveness in future operational scenarios by developing and evaluating integrated technologies and prototype systems. It includes several projects such as Aircraft Protective Clothing, Aircraft Survivability, Vulnerability & Safety, Aircraft & Ordnance Safety, and the CV Aircraft Fire Suppress System.

The Aircraft Protective Clothing project focuses on advancing technologies that enhance warfighter performance and protection. It addresses life support equipment, hearing protection, and digital helmet vision systems. Additionally, it aims to improve crashworthy systems and cockpit design to ensure aircrew readiness. Efforts include integrating advanced computational tools for risk assessment and testing personal protective equipment to mitigate impacts in harsh military environments.

Aircraft Survivability, Vulnerability & Safety seeks to develop hardware and software solutions that enhance the survivability of Navy and Marine Corps aircraft. This involves reducing susceptibility to threats and improving electronic warfare capabilities through advanced modeling and simulation. The project supports the development of integrated Aviation Survivability Equipment architectures for training systems and expands high-fidelity Hardware In The Loop capabilities for assessing electronic warfare concepts against future threats.

The Aircraft & Ordnance Safety project transitions innovative munitions safety technology to ensure compliance with safety standards aboard Navy ships. It focuses on improving precision targeting, fail-safe ordnance, and shock/blast force protection technologies. Key objectives include developing insensitive munitions solutions for air-launched weapons and advancing containment materials that enhance safety during fragment impact testing.

The CV Aircraft Fire Suppress System project develops improved firefighting systems for aircraft-related fires on carriers. It evaluates fire properties, enhances fire-fighting agents, and improves firefighter training. The project also addresses firefighting challenges related to aircraft composites and fuels while ensuring readiness for Air Capable Ships through enhanced training and certification requirements.