Air Crew Systems Development

The Air Crew Systems Development program, managed by the Navy, focuses on engineering and manufacturing development of aviation life support systems. Its primary goal is to protect aircrew and flight deck personnel from threats such as directed energy weapons, chemical/biological agents, and extreme environmental conditions. The program aims to enhance capabilities like night vision, hearing protection, aircrew endurance, and emergency egress systems. It employs strategies such as using non-developmental items and pursuing NATO/allied cooperative ventures to expedite product introduction into Navy and Marine Corps aircraft while reducing costs.

The Physiological Episodes program addresses the need to maintain pilot performance by developing systems that monitor physiological parameters and mitigate risks associated with physiological episodes. This initiative includes the development of improved helmets, masks, and regulators to reduce the occurrence of these episodes. The objectives are to ensure pilot safety and operational readiness by identifying necessary improvements and implementing material solutions that enhance aircrew resilience.

Additional funding has been provided for improvements in the Rotary Wing/Tilt Rotor Survival Vest System within the Aircrew Systems Development program. This enhancement focuses on addressing safety and performance issues with the current vest system by improving flotation, mobility, thermal burden management, and emergency egress survivability. The new vest system aims to enhance overall safety and performance for flight crews during over-land and over-water missions.

These programs within the Air Crew Systems Development initiative are designed to advance the safety, performance, and survivability of Navy aircrew through targeted research and development efforts. By leveraging existing technologies and fostering collaborative partnerships, these programs strive to meet evolving operational requirements while ensuring cost-effectiveness and timely deployment of advanced life support systems.