Female Acceleration Tolerance Enhancement (FATE) Project.
Abstract
To support the 1993 U.S. Secretary of Defense directive to open combat aircraft assignments to women, investigators of the Female Acceleration Tolerance Enhancement (FATE) Project determined female and male subjects' G-protective equipment fit and their tolerance/endurance to simulated aerial combat maneuvers (SACM). Methods: A study of female subjects previously conducted in our laboratory, employing a +4.5 to +7Gz SACM (4.5-7 SACM), indicated women experienced rib pain and breathing difficulties secondary to the poor fit of the anti-G suit. Using a +5 to +9Gz SACM (5-9 SACM) study in this project, investigators tested SACM endurance in females before and after a "best-fit" modification of the standard CSU-13B/P anti-G suit (13B/P), with female SACM times being compared to those for males. In addition, the USAF's COMBAT EDGE pressure breathing ensemble and Advanced Technology Anti-G Suit (ATAGS) were fit-tested on female subjects. Results: Laboratory modification of the 13B/P doubled women's 5-9 SACM endurance (P<0.05). This "AL Mod" was subsequently authorized by the USAF as a CSU-13B/P Technical Order Safety Supplement. In the best-fit 13B/P, there was no significant gender difference in SACM endurance times. These best-fit modifications also proved effective for two refereed female F-16 pilots. Fit modifications of ATAGS and the COMBAT EDGE counterpressure vest were not required, although "extra small, short" sizes of the 13B/P and ATAGS were developed to accommodate the smaller aircrew authorization for current developmental Air Force aircraft. Conclusion: The AL Mod of the 13B/P greatly enhances +Gz endurance in women, and centrifuge tests demonstrate gender parity in high-G SACM tolerance/endurance.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 01, 1998
- Accession Number
- ADA352398
Entities
People
- Christopher M. Hearon
- James W. Dooley
- Robert M. Shaffstall
Organizations
- Air Force Research Laboratory