DERA combats altitude and g-forces with Eurofighter suit

DERA has pushed out the perimeters within which Eurofighter aircrew can operate due to break-through investigations into the next generation of flight suits.

The counter-pressure garments are specifically designed to combat the problems of high altitude and high-G caused by the introduction of more powerful and agile aircraft. The suit is unique to Eurofighter in the UK and, together with the life support system, allows aircrew to maintain functionality at altitudes up to 60,000', and +Gz accelerations up to +9G.

Above 40,000' pressurised oxygen is delivered to the aircrew via their oxygen mask at a positive pressure to help prevent symptoms of hypoxia caused by high altitude. However, such high pressures can lead to distension and damage of the lung. The Eurofighter flight jacket contains air filled bladders that surround the chest wall. These bladders which are filled with gas at the same pressure as gas in the mask. This prevents lung distension so eliminating the risk of lung damage.

Increased +Gz accelerations (above 4G) causes blood to be pushed to the feet and head level blood pressure to fall. This can lead to G-LOC (loss of consciousness) if adequate circulation to the brain is not maintained. Solution: The Eurofighter full coverage anti-G trousers contain bladders similar to the flight jacket. These bladders are pressurised at increasing levels with increasing +Gz acceleration and help maintain the circulation and therefore prevent G-LOC.

DERA's Dr Vivienne Lee said: "The Eurofighter suit, together with the life support system, allows aircrew to survive exposure to high altitudes and reduces the immense physical workload enforced on crews high-G.."

The Eurofighter clothing assembly is a crucial element in the aircrew equipment assembly, which includes, Liquid conditioning vest, underwear, coveralls, thermal protection garments, full coverage anti-g trousers, flight jacket and life preserver, helmet and mask.

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