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HGU-87 (COMBAT EDGE)

 

 

The USN COMBAT EDGE (A/P22P-16 - COMBined Advanced Technology Enhanced Design G Ensemble – “NCE”) was tested on F/A-18 by the Swiss AF in the early 2000's. Its aim is to enhance the pilot's ability to withstand high G forces by reducing the associated fatigue and minimize the chance of G-LOC (G-induced Loss Of Consciousness).

 

The system provides the aircrew with an assisted pressure (up to 80 millibar/ 1.2 psi above ambient) breathing for G (PBG) system for positive acceleration protection between +4 and +9 G to an altitude of 15'000 meters/ 50'000feet.

 

One of the system components is the HGU-87(V)/P22P-16 helmet (HGU-68/P modified with KMU-561/P22P-16 Navy Combat Edge Helmet Bladder Kit).

 

The occipital bladder mentioned above is fitted internally the helmet's shell, and is connected by means of a rubberized hose to the oxygen arrival of the MBU-24 oxygen mask.

 

During acceleration phases above +4Gz, when the CRU-103 regulator increases the oxygen delivery pressure to the mask, the same is also applied to the bladder, thus causing it to inflate and push the pilot’s face into the oxygen mask Increasing its tightness and preventing it from sliding downward.

 

At the same time, the SAF tested the "Libelle" flying suit.

“Libelle” is German for “dragonfly,” because the suit is based on the same principles that protect a dragonfly from the 30-G accelerations the insect generates in flight.

 

The suit uses 1.13 liters (0.3 US gallons) of liquid to exert counterpressure  during acceleration. When acceleration forces push blood toward the lower part of the body, it also pushes the liquid inside the suit in the same direction, providing a counter-pressure that is automatically adjusted by the G-load itself.

The suit uses fluid-filled channels traversing the arms, torso, and legs to tension its snug-fitting fabric. The suit is an autonomous, stand-alone system that does not require air or power from the aircraft.

The suit was tested on the centrifuge at the German Air Force Institute of Aviation Medicine in Königsbrück and in more than
200 flights in SAF Learjets, F-5F's and Mirage III's.

 

Both tests were stopped due to SAF changes in operational philosopy.