The Canopy Severance System of a fighter aircraft

The Canopy Severance System (CSS) of a fighter aircraft is life saving device that helps in safe ejection of a pilot in distress. Two critical components required for functioning of CSS, MDC for cutting canopy bubble and Explosive transfer line (ETL) for transmission of explosive shock from one point to another without affecting surroundings were developed and their production methods established. MDC and ETL function with a velocity of detonation of 6000 m/s ensuring that the cutting action of the Canopy occurs in less than 5 m sec from the time of initiation. Afterthe successful development of this system, the import option of CSS for LCA by ADA was dropped. LCA TD-1,TD-2 and PV-1 have been assembled with indigenous CSS. An upgraded system developed for HJT-36, a trainer aircraft, after successful evaluation has been assembled on the first prototype of HJT-36 that has been in flight since February 2003.