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U.S. Armed Forces Jungle Penetrator Rescue Seat

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SKU:
02170626_FLR
UPC:
021706202600
Condition:
Used
Availability:
Ships 1 Business Day
$1,499.99
U.S. Armed Forces Jungle Penetrator Rescue Seat

The Forest Penetrator is a rescue device used in air ambulances to bring injured people from densely wooded areas onto the helicopter . It is designed to break through tree canopies and undergrowth . People being rescued can hold onto it using folding seats and safety straps.

During the Vietnam War, US Combat Search and Rescue units had difficulty reaching casualties from their helicopters in the heavily forested terrain. The rescue slings used at the time became entangled in the dense treetops and therefore did not reach the ground. Kaman employees developed the "Forest Penetrator" as a result. The first units arrived in Vietnam in June 1966; testing with the also new winches was delayed until September/October. The Forest Penetrator was successful and partially replaced the rescue slings. 

There are various versions with two or three folding seats. Floating versions allow for rescue from the water. Some versions have a fold-out protective screen made of fiberglass-reinforced plastic , which is intended to protect passengers from tree branches during hoisting.  However, even without the protective screen, problems with hoisting are rare. 

  • Seat - Personnel Rescue
  • Max Load: 3 Men OR 600 Lbs
  • Part NO. K26-1000-9
  • FSN: 4240199-7353
  • Contract: F09603-82-G-0957
  • Kaman Aircraft Corp
  • Bloomfield, Conn.