The IRSS prototype is different from other Warner Robins Air Logistics Center acquisitions because it was built here by government employees as part of a partnering agreement with a contractor.
"That means more fuel savings and longer loiter times, and that translates to longer times with our aircraft being able to watch over our troops on the ground," Mr. In addition to a decrease in installation times of about 65 percent, the prototype is also about 240 pounds lighter.
"This gives a lot of flexibility out in the field," said Mark Dixon, director of the 572nd Aircraft Sustainment Squadron gunship flight. The new tubs are designed to be completely interchangeable from engine to engine and from aircraft to aircraft. The existing system was not only difficult to install, but once installed, the tubs were "uniquely mated" to a particular aircraft, even a particular engine. It's going to minimize maintenance greatly." "The new system is made out of tougher, more corrosion resistant materials. "Tubs require time-consuming maintenance in the field and expensive, difficult maintenance here at the Warner Robins Air Logistics Center," said Chad Langston, the AC-130U program manager. The prototype helped alleviate many of the installation and maintenance problems with the current system. The IRSS, known as "tubs" because it looks like a large sheet metal bathtub, is mounted underneath the gunship's engines to protect the aircrew and aircraft from ground-fire threats, and to disperse and hide engine heat sources from infrared-guided anti-aircraft missiles. Working from a design by S&K Technologies, which also provided on-site technical support, specialists in 12 production shops and multiple support personnel within the group combined forces to accomplish the task. (AFNS) - A Robins Air Force Base unit recently developed a prototype infrared suppression system for the AC-130U Spooky.Ĥ02nd Commodities Maintenance Group personnel developed the prototype after receiving an urgent requirement for the IRSS.
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