RAST System

Question 1

HCO/LSO Control Panel Operations

Question 2

RSD and Haul Down Cable

Question 3

RA Landings

Question 4

Free Deck Procedures

Question 5

Bridge Information Display System (BIDS)

Answer 5

The launch and recovery shipboard communication system incorporates the FDSSS/Bridge Information and Display
System (BIDS) at the HCO and LSO stations. The system provides for a positive indication of operational requests
(engage, launch, recover, etc.) and positive indication of OOD responses (YES/NO) through illuminated capsules
on the bridge, CIC, HCO, and LSO station. The system provides direct communications between the flight deck
and bridge without unnecessary communications on the 1JG circuit.

Question 6

RAST System

Answer 6

The aircraft RA system consists of a fully retractable main probe and a messenger cable. The main probe is mounted
on the centerline of the aircraft near the center of gravity. In a fully retracted position, the probe is locked in position.
The main probe contains a 3-phase, 115-VAC, 400-Hz electrically operated hoist, which lowers the probe, reels out
a messenger cable, raises the RA cable, and retracts the probe. The messenger cable is deployed through the center
of the probe to retrieve the ship RA cable. The messenger cable end fitting provides a snap-in connection for the RA
cable. After pulling the RA cable into the locked position, the messenger cable is automatically disconnected from
the RA cable. Upon landing, the lower end of the extended probe is captured by the Rapid Securing Device (RSD).
With the probe secured within the RSD, the helicopter is held in place against horizontal and/or axial tension loads.
A swiveling crenellated ring on the end of the probe is provided for axial loads.
The main probe is powered by the No. 2 DC Primary bus through a circuit breaker on the SO OVHD circuit breaker
panel marked RAST PWR. The hoist is powered by the No. 2 AC Primary bus through a circuit breaker on the
SO OVHD circuit breaker panel marked RAST POWER. The guillotine is powered by the No. 2 DC Primary bus
through a circuit breaker on the SO OVHD circuit breaker panel marked RAST SHEAR. A backup messenger cable
assembly, attached to the aft cabin bulkhead, can be used in the event the messenger cable is sheared.