FAIREY HYDRAULICS has completed initial testing of its new Decklock landing system for the Sikorsky S-70B family of naval helicopters.
The one-year development programme should culminate in the production of a unit suitable for aircraft trials.
The Decklock consists of a pair of steel jaws attached to a compact two-stage actuator, which extends during the aircraft's approach to the ship. The jaws automatically lock the helicopter to a deck-installed grid at touchdown, enabling operation in storm-force conditions, without the need for deck crew.
Sikorsky hopes to enhance the export potential of the S-70B by incorporating the Decklock system, as many ships are already equipped with deck grids.
Source: Flight International