USAF 24-002 Mechanical Cutter for G-11 Parachute Auth.pdf

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Mechanical Dereefer
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FA483026Q0040
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This is an ADFSD Release Information File documenting a mechanical cutter authorization exception for U.S. Air Force parachute operations. Released November 6, 2023, under control number USAF 24-002, the document authorizes the substitution of the DM-500 mechanical cutter for the standard M-21 cutter in G-11 parachutes due to M-21 supply shortages. The authorization applies to the Air Force and affects Technical Order 13C5-31-2.

The FXC Parachute Canopy Dereefer, Model DM-500 (Part Number 811-00289), is approved as an alternative because it accommodates a wide range of cargo parachute types and sizes. Key advantages include its mechanical design as a reusable substitute for the single-use M-21 pyrotechnical cutter, dual time delay selections (2 or 4 seconds) within one unit that reduce logistics costs, water-resistant construction for repeated use after payload landings, and compatibility with existing M-21 mounting brackets requiring no modification. The Navy has already approved the DM-500 through NAVAIR, and the Army is currently testing multiple mechanical cutter alternatives. This exception remains in effect until incorporated into a revised publication of TO 13C5-31-2. The releasing authority is MSgt Andrew J. Holsenback, USAF Aerial Delivery Manager, available at 703-659-5517 or andrew.holsenback@us.af.mil.

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ADFSD Release Information File, Version 1, 20230105

Rescind Date: Post Until Further Notice: Publication Affected:

Title:

Signature:Releasing Authority:

Interim:

Exception:

Release Date:

USAF 24-002 06-Nov-2023

TO 13C5-31-2

//UNCLASSIFIED//

1. This exception affects TO 13C5-31-2.

2. M-21 cutters utilized in G-11 parachutes for the USAF are in short supply. The Army is testing multiple different mechanical cutters. NAVAIR has already approved the DM-500 for Navy use.

3. The USAF is authorized to utilize the DM-500 mechanical cutter in lieu of the M-21 cutter. The FXC Parachute Canopy Dereefer, Model DM-500, Part Number 811-00289 is designed to accommodate a wide range of cargo parachute types and sizes. The DM-500 is a totally mechanical assembly and is designed to be a “re-usable” substitute for the “use-once and throw away” M-21 pyrotechnical cutter. The DM-500 Dereefer provides dual time delay selections within a single unit (unlike a pyrotechnic cutter) that dramatically reduces logistics support costs. Another significant feature is that the FXC Dereefer is ruggedized for repeated use after payload landings and is water-resistant. The DM-500 has been designed to fit perfectly into the existing M-21 mounting bracket with no modification required. The timer offers a choice of preset delays of 2 or 4 seconds.

4. This exception will expire when incorporated in TO 13C5-31-2 when it is revised / published.

5. The point of contact for this action is MSgt Drew Holsenback, USAF Aerial Delivery Manager, at Commercial 703-659-5517 or andrew.holsenback@us.af.mil.

6. Reference(s):

6a. Technical Order, 13C5-31-2, 14 April 2016, Maintenance for G-11B, G-11C, G-11D.

Mechanical Cutter for G-11 Parachute Authorization

HOLSENBACK.ANDRE

W.JAMES.1265841941

Digitally signed by

HOLSENBACK.ANDREW.JAMES.126584194

Date: 2023.11.06 10:13:17 -05'00'

ANDREW J. HOLSENBACK

USAF Aerial Delivery Manager

File details come from the government source that posted it. Updated .