Interface pallet assembly for a helicopter-based weapon system

Abstract

Disclosed herein is an interface pallet assembly for use between the cabin deck of a helicopter and a large, heavy weapon system. The assembly incorporates a self-contained truss assembly designed to support a cantilevered platform, external to the helicopter's cabin, to which the weapon system's turret is attached. Existing deck connection points are utilized to secure the interface pallet assembly to the cabin deck. The interface pallet assembly adds 20E to the downward angle of fire of the weapon system and provides for azimuth rotation of 180E. The present assembly possesses the rotational stiffness required by the turret stabilization system in order to maintain firing accuracy during burst mode sequences. The interface pallet assembly is fabricated of a variety of strong, lightweight materials so as to not unduly add to the overall weight of the helicopter and its payload, and provides storage or mounting locations for accessories associated with the turret and weapon system.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.