The US Navy is developing advanced aircraft recovery systems to be used at austere airfields and the next-generation large-deck aircraft carrier. The Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division Lakehurst, New Jersey, seeks industry bids for study, design and demonstration of technology for an advanced arrester gear, utilising linear electric motors that could replace the current systems aboard USN aircraft carriers. Potential advantages include reduced cost and weight and higher aircraft sortie rates. A land-based feasibility demonstration within three years is being proposed.
Source: Flight International