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IN PHOTO: An Airman demonstrates the Joint Service Aircrew Mask - Rotary Wing mask The U.S. Air Force has completed testing of its new face mask for helicopter and other rotary aircraft crews. The Joint Service Aircrew Mask – Rotary Wing (JSAM-RW) mask is one of five variants that will replace a whole range of masks worn by military aircrews, and will not only provide oxygen at high altitudes, but also protect the wearer against nuclear, biological, radiological, and chemical (NBRC) threats. The new mask provides aircrew vastly improved ocular, percutaneous and respiratory protection and integrates with night vision goggles, requires no aircraft modification, and has joint service commonality, a five-fold increase in fit factor, a six-fold increase in battery life, and a removable faceplate. In addition, the mask gives aircrew an enhanced field of view so they can better conduct combat missions in a CBRN environment. “With recent and continuing world events, our nation’s ability to effectively fight and win in an environment that involves weapons of mass destruction has become more and more important,” said Dr. Mohamed Mughal, Chief Engineer of the Air Force Life Cycle Management Center’s CBRN Defense Systems Branch. “So far, the Air Force has already delivered JSAM RW masks to almost a dozen airbases around the world.” Fielding teams from the Joint Program Executive Office for Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear Defense and Air Combat Command have trained Aircrew Flight Equipment personnel on sizing, fitting and Preventative Maintenance Checks and Services for the JSAM RW mask. They have also trained aircrew in the proper wear and use of the mask. To date, the fielding teams have trained approximately 100 AFE personnel and about 75 aircrew. “Fielding the new masks is significant because they are replacing equipment that limits the capability of aircrew to perform their mission,” said Lt. Col. William Holl, Materiel Leader of