Chemical/Biological (CB) Protected Mobile Maintenance Shelters

Servicing fighter aircraft continuously and effectively requires a shelter, especially during adverse weather or during a suspected Chemical and Biological attack. Continuous and effective service will bring the fighter back to its next sortie faster, thus maximizing this high value asset. While a full size hanger for each and every aircraft is desirable, during an overseas bare base operation, the likelihood of such hanger availability is remote. A solution is required to protect the maintenance crew from the environment, such as sand storm and a Chemical or Biological attack. An AirBeam frame (AirFrame) supported structure will offer stability in high wind, and relatively fast setup. An AirBeam supported shelter is self supporting and once inflated does not require a continuous air supply to remain deployed. This shelter will then require only a small continuous flow of fresh CB filtered air, the amount of which is dependent on the number of personnel, their activity levels, and the leak rate (through airlocks, doors, or vents). In the event of a power interruption the AirBeam frame will continue to support the structure (essentially indefinitely) and the shelter will function as passive protection. The shelters are designed such that the end wall can be completely removed without compromising the integrity of the system. The AirBeam frame can encapsulate the part of the aircraft that is being serviced.