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Curtiss-Wright Arresting Systems / ESCO cable arresting systems provide hook-fitted military aircraft with proven and innovative technology for safely capturing and arresting the aircraft. They can be installed on the runway, as operational systems, or in the overrun area as emergency systems.

SmartArrest®

The SmartArrest®, a closed loop computer-controlled variant of the BAK-12, delivers the largest energy capacity and lowest hookloads possible. The SmartArrest® is a state-of-the-art system designed to further improve safety and operational flexibility, while reducing maintenance and manpower requirements. Ideal for Next Gen fighter aircraft and composite wing missions, the SmartArrest® is operated by a multitude of countries worldwide and is a critical part of NATO mission support.

Friction Brakes, Water Twister®, Textile Brakes

The wide range of Curtiss-Wright Arresting Systems / ESCO mechanical energy absorbers enable the aircraft and its crew to be brought to a controlled stop. They are the only ones qualified and in service within the US Air Force. They include the BAK-12 mechanical friction brake, which is the most widely used energy absorber in the world. The textile brake is an exclusive product of Curtiss-Wright Arresting Systems / ESCO, providing a low cost and low-profile aircraft arresting method ideal as a secondary back-up system. Finally, the Water Twister®, whose braking performance is a direct result of the aircraft's velocity, is designed for customers interested in constant runout.

BAK-14M and Type H

Curtiss-Wright Arresting Systems / ESCO retractable hook cable systems enable the pendant cable to be retracted below the runway surface. They allow the runway to be used by all civil & military aircraft, without any risk of equipment damage. Retractable hook cable systems reduce manpower requirements and time on runway and improves arrestment dynamics helping to ensure a successful and safe engagement. Both the BAK-14M and Type-H are the only systems approved for use by the United States Air Force, for which Curtiss-Wright Arresting Systems / ESCO is the OEM and sole provider.

Control Systems

Control systems provided by Curtiss-Wright Arresting Systems / ESCO offer the customer the ability to control multiple net, cable and mobile systems from a single control interface. The user can control the systems from the runway or tower, while also receiving critical status and troubleshooting information. The systems integrate with existing airfield infrastructures via copper, fiber optic, or radio communication methods.

Installation Products & Services

The runway environment influences the choice of arresting system. In the case of a permanent installation, this may have to comply with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) directives. Curtiss-Wright Arresting Systems / ESCO therefore provides a complete service package: layout plans, civil engineering work supervision, installation supervision, user training and technical support throughout the product life cycle. These services can also be included in turnkey packages. The PortArrest® P-IV ESCO is suitable for temporary installations. It is a self-contained mobile arresting system designed to deploy and recover a squadron on permanent or temporary runways quickly and safely.

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