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Falcons under arrest

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Christopher Maldonado
  • 20th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
SHAW AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. --  Airmen from the 20th Civil Engineer Squadron power production flight installed new emergency arresting systems on the flightline at Shaw Air Force Base, South Carolina, Dec. 3-5.

The Barrier Arresting Kit-12 rotary friction brake aircraft arresting system used at Shaw AFB are replaced every 10 years to help maintain aircraft and pilot safety in the event of an in-air emergency.

If a pilot is unable to engage a jet’s landing gear due to damage or malfunction, a hook can be deployed from the aircraft serving as a support grapple. When the hook meets a raised metal cable on the runway, the BAK-12 arresting system acts as a shock absorber, capable of supplying the 65 million pounds of force needed to tighten the cable and safely halt aircraft such as the F-16CM Fighting Falcon and F-15E Strike Eagle.

With the system in place, the 79 F-16CM Fighting Falcons assigned to Shaw AFB can take to the skies with the assurance of a safety net should an emergency arise.

“These systems have a shelf life of 10 years, and must be replaced before any flying can be undergone on its respective part of the flightline,” said Senior Airman Garland Moore, 20th Civil Engineer Squadron power production technician.

Upon replacement of the arresting systems, BAK-12s must be recertified and meet all safety standards before take-offs and landings can be made on the runway.

“Changing these systems helps ensure that they are maintained and good to go,” said Senior Airman Jacob Smith, 20th CES power production technician. “Although they are replaced every 10 years, daily maintenance is undertaken to make sure they are ready to be utilized should an emergency arise.”

Just as aircraft maintenance must be done on a regular basis, maintenance must also be done on the systems that protect the aircraft should an in-air emergency or troubled take-off occur.

Daily pressure readings, oil checks and engine tests maintain the BAK-12 systems so they can be used at a moment’s notice.

With the systems in place, Shaw AFB pilots can take to the skies knowing the emergency management measure on the ground are secure and up-to-date. The system will enhance pilot and aircraft safety, maintaining mission readiness and overall procedural effectiveness.