A defence lab in Bangalore has made a new kit with protective equipment and clothing that makes parajumping from a height of 30,000 feet easy. The paratrooper during free fall at altitudes of 30,000 feet is exposed to low temperature, different wind velocities and other atmospheric conditions. Defence Bioengineering and Eletromedical Lab (DEBEL) has developed protective equipment and clothing for ‘‘Combat Free Fall’’ along with ADRDE, Agra. The kit includes a parachute, communication system and life support system consisting of oxygen and protective clothing. ‘‘When they jump from that height, the temperature outside will be minus 45 degrees Celsius. Their body suit should be able to protect them and they should be able to breathe normally. We have developed special light material for clothes that can withstand extreme temperatures,’’ DEBEL director GP Agrawal told The Indian Express. ‘‘The reduced barometric pressure at high altitudes leads to hypoxia which makes it necessary to use suitable oxygen supplying equipment for a paratrooper. It supplies air with required concentration of oxygen for adequate duration. Our tank provides them with oxygen for as much as 50 minutes while they are up in the air,’’ Agrawal said. This oxygen system has been designed to last 30-40 minutes after bailout and 60 minutes of supply for pre-breathing on board the aircraft for six personnel at a time. The system integrates an oxygen mask with an automatic oxygen diluter demand regulator. Protective clothing includes helmet, jumpsuit, gloves, boots and goggles. The paratrooper during free fall at altitudes of 30,000 feet is exposed to low temperature, different wind velocities and other atmospheric conditions. During landing, the ground temperature may be as high as 55 degrees Celsius. The paratrooper may be subjected to head injuries due to impact or leg injuries due to shock. ‘‘It is imperative to protect them from such adverse conditions,’’ he said.
