Russia testing new flight suit
The Research and Development Production Enterprise Zvezda (Star) is completing tests of a new suit and life-support system for pilots of the fifth-generation PAK FA T-50 Advanced Tactical Fighter outside Moscow. Development engineers say they have developed a pilot’s workstation comprising the suit, a helmet and an ejection seat. The suit enables the pilot to withstand up to a 9 g force, while executing various maneuvers, to abruptly change course in combat conditions and to retain control of the aircraft.
The upgraded ejection seat includes a miniature computer which can save the pilot even if all other onboard systems fail.
The new helmet is much lighter than previous models and can shield the pilot’s head from cockpit-canopy fragments in case of accident. It can also be fitted with specialized equipment.
