Representatives from RFD Beaufort UK recently visited Australia to discuss a proposal to invest in a second production line for Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) pilot suits at RFD Australia.

RFD Beaufort, a Survitec Group Company, was selected in 2004 to design, develop, qualify and supply all of the below neck Pilot Flight Equipment for the JSF Program. Global production and sustainment are the pillars of the JSF Program and the below neck Pilot Flight Equipment offered by RFD Beaufort met the stringent performance requirements of the F-35 flying environment while offering the best value for money.

Survitec Group will soon confirm its intention to support the JSF program for Pilot Flight Equipment by establishing a manufacturing capability in Sydney supported by contractual agreement between both companies. Pilot Flight Equipment will be added to the portfolio of the RFD (Australia) operation, which has its offices in Auburn, NSW.

The below neck Pilot Flight Equipment is a fully integrated life support system comprising Anti-G Trousers, Flotation Collar, Survival Waistcoat, Cold Water Immersion Protection, Thermal Protection and Liquid Cooling for temperature regulation to enhance aircrew performance.

JSF – Australia’s next generation air power – is the most advanced multi-role combat aircraft in the world. The JSF Program remains on schedule with the first JSF flight arranged for August/September 2006.