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Technology

Ground Collision Avoidance Technology

Ground Collision Avoidance Technology (GCAT) was developed by NASA and employed in multiple military fighter aircraft in order to save pilot lives and prevent unnecessary loss of aircraft.

By Rocky Jedick MD, MBA · · 6 min read

F-16D, GCAT Testing

On a recent flight in a Block 40 F-16 I was introduced to the new pilot-activated recovery system (PARS). Starting at about 20,000 feet we rolled inverted and started a rapid 30 degree nose-low dive. The pilot pressed a button initiating PARS - immediately the aircraft's computer took command.

Ground Collision Avoidance Technology (GCAT)

PARS is part of the F-16's newest upgrade to avoid mishaps due to controlled flight into terrain (CFIT). The entire fleet of F-16's in the USAF received this important upgrade during 2014.

A Brief History of GCAT

NASA's DROID drone

The technology began development in the 1980's. The team conducted more than 556 test maneuvers during 49 flights.

Advantages & Limitations

Two of the most common human factors leading to death in combat aviation are spatial disorientation and G-induced loss of consciousness (G-LOC).

Capt Will PYRO Dubois

See also: Spatial Disorientation | Pulling G's

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