[NSRCA-discussion] Arming Switch

[Jeff Hill]

I was on a UAV project recently and we used external arming plugs on all our experimental and training aircraft. They were the Deans type previously mentioned, female in fuse, shorted male for arming. 

Unlike other posts, the reason we did it was that it served as a visual clue for pilots and crew that the system was energized. It was necessary because the aircraft weren't always prepped in the pilot's presence nor were the ground crew members following every flight. Each flight involved at least three and more likely five personnel: two pilots and three ground crew. We thought it was necessary that everyone could tell if an aircraft they encountered was energized. We also had rigorous arming and disarming procedures. 

So, our reasons were a lot like Don Atwood's but with the added complexity of several personnel involved on every flight. Knock on wood we never had a mishap. 

Jeff Hill