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? asked in Arts & HumanitiesHistory · 7 years ago

How did WW2 parachutes operate and how do they compare with modern parachutes?

I am trying to find information on just what differences parachutes used in WW2 (paratroopers, particularly US airborne but others can be applicable), in regards to how steerable/ controllable they were. how reliable, etc. compared to modern parachutes. Has the design and form changed since then? I know the US Army still uses circular parachute types today.

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  • 7 years ago
    Favourite answer

    The chutes back then didn't have risers. No expert here, but without risers descent rate is quite high so hitting the ground can really injure.

    Risers slow descent rate to land softer. It requires technique to land in combat situations.

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