Aircraft Life Preserver Survival Vest (Manual)

The Mustang Survival MSV971 is an integrated life preserver / Survival Vest (LP/SV) system which is the culmination of years of product knowledge, experience and user feedback. Designed specifically for pilots and aircrew to be worn over flight suits, the Mustang Survival MSV971 has an inflatable flotation cell integrated into a survival vest which is lightweight and comfortable, while providing ample storage for personal survival accessories. Providing a full 37 lbs. of buoyancy, the inflatable cell - available with manual inflation - is comprised of two independent chambers, separated by a fully integrated floating baffle system contained in a flame resistant collar. This provides for an orally inflated reserve chamber in the event that the primary chamber becomes damaged. The MSV971's unique cell design has been engineered to exhibit excellent self-righting and flotation properties. Manual inflation is achieved by pulling on a beaded handle which is positioned in a convenient location, yet protected from snagging. The collar which contains the packed life preserver is constructed from fire resistant 6 oz. Nomex aramid fabric. The collar is extremely slim in profile, providing no restriction to visibility or head movement with helmet and oxygen mask worn. The perimeter of the collar is held closed with zip closures which automatically open upon cell inflation. The MSV971 is compatible with aircraft seat harness, other aircrew survival gear and accessories and is designed to withstand wind blasts associated with jet aircraft ejection. This base model MSV971 is for use in non-high-speed ejection seat applications in various aircraft around the world.

Each vest is lightweight - approximately 3 lbs. unloaded, and contains specific customized pocket requirements for stowage of survival items such as rations or lights. The MSV971 is constructed from Nomex fire resistant cover and fire resistant open mesh aramid material for lightweight comfort, minimizing heat stress. Four sizes of MSV971 are available, accommodating up to a 52 inch (132 cm) chest size. Individual fit is further aided by the adjustable chest strap and waist belt. As well, each vest is equipped with an integrated lifting harness for over water rescue by helicopter, and contains a buddy line and US Coast Guard approved SOLAS whistle.

Fully inflated, the life preserver provides an effective buoyant force of 165 Newtons (37 lbs.). Self-righting of the wearer is achieved within 5 seconds of activation. The wearer is supported in a stable, upright position with the mouth held well clear of the water surface, at an angle of approximately 45° from the vertical.

Inflation is achieved with a single point mechanical inflator system, utilizing a replaceable 34-37 gram CO² cylinder (nominal 35 grams) conforming to Type III of MIL-C-25369. Backup oral inflation is provided on both front and rear chambers with an oral inflation system conforming to MIL-0-81375.

The high frequency welded construction of the inflatable cell utilizes polyurethane coated nylon fabric which exceeds the requirements of both MIL-C-83489 and AMS 3272/1. The protective collar is constructed from neoprene coated, fore resistant 6 oz. Nomex aramid anti-static fabric which exceeds the requirements of MIL-C-83429.

The MSV971 is constructed from raschel knitted open mesh Nomex aramid cloth conforming to MIL-C-43989. The harness, waist belt and chest adjustment strap are constructed from MIL-W-4088 and MIL-W-17337 webbing.