Injury profile for airborne operations utilizing the SF-10A maneuverable parachute.

PURPOSE

The purpose of this investigation was to determine the injury profile of the steerable, SF-10A, static-line parachute.

METHODS

The investigation evaluated prospectively 972 low-level static-line training jumps for major injuries that required CASEVAC from the drop zone and for minor injuries that allowed the jumpers to continue with their training mission.

RESULTS

The investigation found overall injury rates to be 8.23 per 1000 jumps, with 2.03 per 1000 jumps requiring CASEVAC.

CONCLUSIONS

Overall attrition rates of the steerable SF-10A parachute were below those of previously reported non-steerable parachutes, suggesting further evaluation is warranted of maneuverable parachutes in all military services.