In my 33 years in the RAF I have been privileged to work on many fast jet aircraft weapons systems including the maintenance of the aircraft assisted escape systems. These aircraft included the Hunter T7 & T8, Buccaneer S2, Jaguar GR1, Harrier GR3 / T4, GR 7, 9, T10 and the faithful Tornado GR1 – 4A with assisted escape systems from Mk 6, 9, 10 and 12. I am now the Safety Manager for BAE for Hawk T1/T2 and Typhoon FGR4 where I still discuss safe systems of work with those who currently maintain Martin-Baker Escape Systems.
The majority of my time was on Tornado where I honed my wire locking skills in many of the tricky little items such as the unlocking jacks, twin breech and jack head with many hours setting up the MDC system. The Mk10 however, was the easiest seat to work on albeit with a large array of explosives, necessary for its clean operation in saving lives. It was a pleasure to be part of the maintenance staff providing a safe means of escape for the aircrew.
I thoroughly enjoyed working on aircraft assisted escape systems and have the greatest respect for every person who maintains seats and the select few who help save lives.
After many years of maintenance, I enjoyed a parting present to be able to fly in the back seat of a GR4 Tornado in the knowledge that if anything went pear shaped I would be very confident in the escape system.
~ Speaking in 2020.
