Can a better blanket improve the mission capability of a Chinook?
First and foremost Cocoon’s improved thermal acoustic blanket (ITAB) increases readiness. Thanks to breakthrough technology that prevents moisture build-up against the airframe, a Chinook outfitted with the ITAB will have dramatically less downtime due to corrosion. When you’re ready to go, the Chinook will be too.
Secondly, Cocoon’s ITAB saves 160+ lbs.compared to the old blanket. That weight-savings could represent any number of mission advantages. Let’s say the mission calls for 2 Chinooks. That’s a collective weight-savings of over 320 lbs., which could translate into:
More cargo
More range
More weapons
Additional ammunition
Other mission-improvement features include:
Better acoustic performance
Better thermal performance
Inherently anti-static material
Fabric that won’t absorb oils and lubricants that foul and add weight to the old blankets.
Inherent fire resistance
And because of its advanced attachment system, Cocoon’s ITAB stays in place, eliminating unnecessary time spent having to tie the old blanket in place with 550 cord. Those man-hours can be spent on more meaningful mission preparedness.
As you can see, aviation blankets should be light, but not taken lightly. They can impact mission capability, and should be modernized along with other critical equipment.
To learn more, click here for an introductory brief.
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