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By the end of the ’90, the standard Swiss AF F/A-18 ejection seat configuration requiring torso harness was deemed by the crews unsatisfactory in regards to harness adaptability and discomfort during air combat manoeuvring.
A modification of the ejection seat was implemented including the installation of a so-called “Simplified Combined Harness” which required a new life vest.
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The selected model was the Lifeguard LG1566. The LG life vest was in use until the introduction of the JHMCS configured pilot helmet; technical ( as the need for the JHMCS HVI lower cable routing/ fitting bracket) and operational considerations lead to the decision to “de-modify” the ejection seat.
As a result the torso harness/ life preserver combo PCU-56/ LPU-36 is in use today.
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