Wed, Jul 30, 2003
Precision Parachute System Could Become Reality
The Department of Defense
will continue funding Atair Aerospace, Inc. and its development of
a 75lb. autonomous guided parachute delivery system, called the
ONYX System. In addition to government awarded funds of
approximately $849,000, the Festo Corporation has Fast Tracked
Atair's SBIR transition to Phase II funding with a $250,000 dollar
investment.
Now. More Than Ever.
The need for this technology is required now more than ever.
Precision airdrop will not only reduce risks to supply lines, but
also allow military forces to position supplies ahead of rapidly
moving combat forces and deliver supplies covertly to Special
Operation Forces without securing the airspace directly over the
drop zone.
The proliferation of
inexpensive surface-to-air missiles and anti-aircraft guns gravely
jeopardizes aircraft and personnel flying below 25,000 feet; a
significant problem since conventional military airdrop techniques
require cargo to be released under round parachutes from altitudes
below 1,500 feet for accurate placement.
In response to the critical strategic requirements of precision
airdrop, Atair has developed the ONYX System. This recoverable and
reusable delivery system can be deployed from an altitude of up to
35,000 feet and with an on-board flight computer it can
autonomously navigate cargo to a predetermined landing target. This
ensures the safety of delivery aircraft and personnel from hostile
ground-based fire.
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