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There is a competitive contract race underway between Collins Aerospace and Martin-Baker, aiming to determine the provider of the next-generation ejection seats for the US Air Force's F-16 Fighting Falcon jets. This initiative, called the Next-Generation Ejection Seat (NGES), currently focuses on the F-16 but may expand to include other aircraft platforms in future competitions. The goal is to incorporate modern materials and technology into ejection seats to reduce injury risks during emergency ejections.
Andrew Hunter, Assistant Secretary of the Air Force for Acquisition, Technology and Logistics, stated: "The decision to re-open the competition underscores our commitment to continually assess our strategies to ensure we meet warfighter needs and timelines. By reassessing market conditions and fostering competition, we ensure industry delivers the best possible solutions for both current and future Air Force requirements... While the introduction of competition within the NGES program will initially focus on the F-16, the decisions following the competition could extend to other platforms, including the F-22 and B-1."
The F-16 has been an essential part of US air warfare strategy despite lacking some capabilities of newer fighter jets. The renewed competition seeks designs that address stress injuries, weight constraints, and maintenance requirements. Collins Aerospace has entered its ACES 5 design into the competition, featuring proprietary elements intended to reduce physical strain on pilots. A statement from Collins Aerospace highlights that ACES 5 has undergone rigorous testing for head and neck protection under demanding conditions.
