Abstract:
This paper provides a discussion of the challenges associated with embarking the MQ-8C Fire Scout (converted Bell 407) system onboard ships, focusing on the launch and recovery (L&R) process and equipment. The baseline version of Fire Scout, MQ-8C, along with all its improved derivatives is required to undergo ship suitability assessments in the form of dynamic interface (DI) testing, also known as helicopter-ship qualification analysis, aboard ship. DI testing evaluates all aspects of shipboard helicopter compatibility such as adequacy, effectiveness and safety of shipboard aviation support facilities and procedures for all ship-based helicopter types. To facilitate the upcoming at-sea ship-suitability assessment, a parallel effort was initiated to apply motion simulation defining deck interface experimentation ahead of sea trials. Analysis is made of various system component responses to the encountered motions and forces from a generic mono-hull vessel. Improvements in deck limits are estimated from the motion characterization of a platform in terms of, and as a function of, oleo compression and deflection, torque monitor along with indications of precise weight on wheels. At-sea preliminary validation study results are discussed and compared with simulated scenarios. This computational method employs sufficient performance criteria and correlates well with forecasted quiescent windows of deck motion. Results are presented in relation to deck energy problems normally confronted by a helicopter during recovery in progressively difficult conditions.