Japan and the USA have launched a co-operative programme to develop improvements for the ACES II ejection seat. The objectives are to expand the seat's accommodation range, prevent limb-fail injuries and increase high-speed stability.
The Boeing (formerly McDonnell Douglas) ACES II seat is used in Japan Air Self-Defence Force Boeing F-15s, as well as F-15s and other combat aircraft flown by the USAir Force. Joint sled testing of the modified seat is planned for November 2000.
Boeing will develop the retrofittable improvements jointly with Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, with the Japanese focusing on accommodations and limb restraints and the USA on tackling stability.
Seat improvements will increase the occupants' weight range to 45kg (103lb) to 110kg, from the original 65kg to 95kg.
Source: Flight International
