About Fort Walton Beach's Eglin AFB

Joint Strike Fighter pilot instructors were fitted for their new gear this past week at Eglin AFB. This state of the art suit is off the hook. Rumor has it that the helmet alone cost more than most single family homes! The Joint Strike Force pilots wearing them represent not only the Air Force, but also the Navy, Marines, and student pilots from allied countries as well. The most advanced step is the personalized helmet that weighs as much as a bowling ball. A laser scanner maps the head of each pilot and creates padding tailored to their individual heads. A process that doesn't take months, but in a matter of hours! The technology of the helmet lets them view underneath and outside the aircraft, literally seeing through it like a virtual game.

The thermal suit itself includes flame retardant underwear and the socks are sewn into thermal suits and create a barrier against water in case a pilot ejects and lands in water! Plus each branch of service and country can tailor the suits according to its use. For example, the Navy pilots fly over more water and will have options integrating life preservers into the suits. Pretty cool stuff hunh?

But wait, there's more. Outside of the latest and greatest technology, is the boost to the economy and the number of jobs created. Everybody from scientists, engineers, laser technicians, computer technicians, researchers, people in plastics, rubber, underwear manufacturers, sock manufacturers, seamstresses and more. That's right the suits are being manufactured in Ohio with material made in the United States!

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