Why artificial intelligence has secured its place in special forces' operations
The diverse use cases of Artificial Intelligence (AI) have been turning it into a critical tool for Special Operations Forces (SOF).
Special ops step for Bell 429
Bell Helicopter's Aeronautical Accessories has added a special ops platform/step for the Bell 429 light, twin-engine helicopter to its product line, the company announced on 27 October.
The US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) issued a supplemental type certificate for the new accessory in September 2015.
The special ops platform/step has all-aluminium, lightweight construction inclusive of all mounting hardware. It has been developed with an anti-slip enhancement to improve safety and mission capabilities for special operations.
The step can be used by crew members that use rappelling, fast rope and hoist kits, and can be installed on either or both sides of the aircraft. It is also available with a customised skid tube hoist guard for right-hand side installation, providing gear protection from hoist cable damage.
Jennifer Lunceford, manager of sales, Aeronautical Accessories, said: 'The new special ops platform was developed specifically with direct input from our customer. This is a product that incorporates enhancements designed to create a more stable environment for the crew while assisting our customers in accomplishing their missions.
'We expect this accessory to be a must-have for parapublic, search and rescue and other customers looking for a newly designed step that provides increased stability and convenience.'
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