T-11 ATPS to be fielded

After all tests have gone well, the new mass jump Advanced Tactical Parachute System will soon be fielded. It replaces the parachute T-10 which has been in use over the last 50 yrs and - while designed for the same tactical parameters - not only is an adjustment to the ever groing jump loads (T-11 allows 400 lbs) but also reduces sink rate (from 21 to 16 ft/s which reuces impact energy by 40%) which will significantly reduce knee injuries in the DZs (the difference is similar to a jump from 9 feet or from 5 feet). Also almost no opening shock (6 secs opening time, this thing is *huge*!) and virtually no oscillation.

Interesting article with lots of sensible comments here: http://www.socnet.com/archive/index.php/t-77115.html

Test procedures and why the new square canopy was chosen: http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/systems/aircraft/systems/atps.htm

And finally, vids:

Advanced Tactical Parachute System ATPS

http://www.liveleak.com/view?i=3fd_1231909444

Rattler