NPP Zvezda K-36

Schleudersitz MK-36DM

NPP Zvezda K-36 is a series of ejection seats developed by the Russian company NPP Zvezda. This series of ejection seats is renowned for its safety features and has been used in a variety of military aircraft, including fighters and bombers. The K-36 series has undergone several modifications over the years, leading to different versions such as the K-36D, K-36DM, and K-36LM.

Development and Features

The development of the K-36 began in the early 1970s by NPP Zvezda, a leading Russian enterprise specializing in life-support systems for high-altitude flights and human activities in space. The K-36 series was designed to significantly improve pilot survival rates during high-speed ejections. One of the key features of the K-36 series is its ability to provide safe ejection at speeds from 0 to 1,400 kilometers per hour and altitudes from 0 to 20,000 meters. This wide range of operational capability is achieved through an innovative design that includes an automatic adjustment to the ejection parameters based on the aircraft's speed and altitude at the moment of ejection.

Versions

K-36D

The K-36D is the standard version used in fighter aircraft such as the Sukhoi Su-27 and its variants. It is designed for a single pilot and is equipped with features such as an anti-g suit integration, automatic seat orientation during ejection, and a personal survival pack.

K-36DM

The K-36DM is an improved version used in aircraft like the MiG-29. It includes enhanced safety features and comfort improvements for the pilot. This version also boasts a higher success rate in pilot survival during emergency ejections.

K-36LM

The K-36LM is a version designed for use in the Lun-class ekranoplan, showcasing the versatility of the K-36 series in adapting to different types of aircraft, including ground effect vehicles.

Safety Record

The K-36 series has an impressive safety record, with numerous documented cases of pilots surviving potentially fatal ejections thanks to the seat's design. Its reliability and effectiveness have made it a preferred choice not only within Russia but also among several other countries operating Russian-made aircraft.

Impact and Legacy

The NPP Zvezda K-36 has set a high standard for ejection seat design and safety, influencing the development of ejection seats worldwide. Its success has underscored the importance of pilot safety in military aviation and has led to advancements in life-support technology in aerospace.