Helicopter Aerial Rescue Kit (HARK)

The HARK (Helicopter Aerial Rescue Kit) System is a modified version of HDT Airborne Systems' Aerial Rescue Kit (ARK) which has been in service with the Canadian Forces SAR teams since 2006. The HARK is an air-to-sea rescue system, manually deployed from rotary winged aircraft. Each kit provides temporary shelter, with survival contents for six to ten persons for 24 hours. Up to two kits with buoyant, connecting rope can be dropped providing refuge for 12-20 persons in one deployment pass. The HARK achieves 100% right-way-up inflation.

Designed for Critical Search and Rescue Missions

• Includes a drogue chute to slow and stabilize the descent to a low velocity on water Impact, with an option to disengage the drogue chute for low-level drops.
• Typically, systems are deployed within 50 feet of a targeted area. The system’s unique water activation device triggers the life raft inflation and deploys a fast-acting sea anchor upon immersion in water, minimizing wind drift during descent. 
• Contents are customized by choosing from a variety of life rafts and survival gear, ensuring the use of current, in-service equipment. Contents are vacuumed packed to increase life.
• Identical units are compact and interchangeable aiding in handling, portability and storage.
• Train personnel and improve deployment accuracy with an optional training system, which replicates the operational system in size, weight, and form.