Jet Blast Deflector (JBD) Test Site

The orientation of aircraft carrier catapults requires that the hot exhaust gases of the jet aircraft turning up to full power during launch operations are deflected so as not to cause heat and blast damage to other aircraft, equipment, and personnel on the flight deck. The JBD, which consists of a series of water cooled panels, achieves this purpose. In the flush deck position, it allows an aircraft to be taxied over it and into launch position. As soon as the aircraft is forward of the JBD, the operator actuates the hydraulic system to raise the JBD for aircraft turn up.