FORT RUCKER, Ala. (August 21, 2013) - John Ramiccio, right, chief, Flight Systems Branch, U.S. Army Aeromedical Research Laboratory, briefs Brig. Gen. Timothy J. Edens, director of Army Safety and commanding general, U.S. Army Combat Readiness/Safety Center during a demonstration of the Tactile Situation Awareness System.

During his visit to USAARL, Edens flew in a NUH-60FS simulator and experienced first-hand the capabilities of the TSAS, a one-of-a-kind system developed to enhance a pilot's situational awareness and to prevent spatial disorientation while flying. Individuals who fly with the TSAS are outfitted with vests that contain tactile simulators or tractors that help maintain pilot awareness of drift and altitude through non-visual means. Edens was also briefed on the laboratory's sensory and injury prevention research.

USAARL's research, development, tests and evaluations aims to protect and sustain the performance of aviators and Soldiers in the operational environment.