|
TM/MC, developed and produced by the Canadian company Mist Mobility
Integrated Systems Technology, Inc. (MMIST) represents a Commercial
Off The Shelf (COTS) 'freefall rig' designed for super-sized
cargo, rather than a human sky diver. The system uses a rectangular,
900-square-foot parachute, which can be steered, like a classic
round chute. It also incorporates a small drogue parachute to
help stabilize the cargo pallet, keeping it facing upward so
the main chute opens properly after freefalling. Sherpa can
accommodate rigged weights from 50 to 2,200 pounds (one ton)
deployed from an altitude 25,000 ft and offset distance of up
to nine miles from the target. Several Sherpas could be dropped
during one pass, saving time and fuel, and each could soar to
a different unit at a different location stretched over several
miles.
|
|
While
in flight, Sherpa constantly checks its position using a GPS
receiver, and makes flight adjustments as necessary, pulling
on two steering lines to position the parachute on the correct
flight path. Before takeoff the system is programmed with the
altitude and speed, the cargo’s weight, drop zone location
and wind speeds predicted for the various heights. The system
will calculate its flight plan autonomously.
Sherpa can also be programmed to maneuver around
known obstacles or enemy locations. The system can operate autonomously
or guided by a human operator, from an aircraft, by a parachutist
or from the ground. The handheld remote controller provides
manual over-ride and adjust the landing point in-flight. The
system is compatible with current airdrop platforms such as
C-130, C-141, C-17, C-123, C-23, C-160 and is also capable of
drops from rotary wing aircraft (i.e. CH-47, CH-53). At a cost
of about US$60,000 per unit, Sherpa can be recovered without
special tools and be reused within a 45 to 90 minute time frame.
Sherpa is currently operational in Iraq as part
of Combat Services Support Delivery, of supplies to soldiers
throughout the vast portion of Iraq. It is operated by the U.S.
Military, Canadian forces and a number of NATO forces. The Sherpa
versions deployed since 2003 with the US Marine Corps in Iraq
can carry only 1,200 lbs (545 kg) of cargo. By 2008, the corps
expects to get larger versions, capable of supporting 2,200
(1 ton) and 10,000 lbs. (4.5 ton). The US Special Forces Command
operates the CQ-10A "Snow Goose" powered paragliders,
also developed by MMIST.
|
