TM-5-5420-279-10
Section III. DSB TRANSPORTATION
General
1.3.1.1
The equipment to launch and deploy the DSB is carried on flatracks by four vehicles
including the launcher and their associated trailers. Each vehicle and trailer is configured
for the carriage of specific launch beam, bridge module, ramp modules and associated
flatracks on each vehicle and trailer allows delivery of the items to the necessary location
on the bridge site in the order they will be required for use.
1.3.1.2
On flatracks where two modules are transported, both upper and lower tiers of items are
individually secured to the flatracks by ratchet straps, each having a safe working load of
2.5 tons (2267.9 kg). The vertical straps are hooked over the top chord of the bridging
modules at one end and connected to the flatrack tie-down points mounted along each
side edge of the flatracks at the other. To prevent longitudinal travel, each tier is secured
at its forward and rear ends by a ratchet operated strap which also has a safe working
load of 2.5 tons (2267.9 kg). For detailed strapping of each load, refer to Chapter 11.
Transporting
The DSB can be transported by highway, air, external air transport, marine or rail. The components
can be transported as fully loaded vehicles if the transport mode allows or, the palletized loading
system (PLS) enables the components to be easily and quickly transferred from one vehicle type to
another where space is limited. For detailed information on all modes of transport, refer to Chapter
11.
Highway Transport
The bridge and launching equipment is transported on three CBT or PLS vehicles and four trailers.
See Chapter 11.
Air Transport
The launching system, and loaded transporters (CBT or PLS and M1076 PLS trailers) can be
transported by C5 and C-17 aircraft. The bridge and the launcher vehicle can also be transported by
C-130 aircraft however, the crane and launcher have to be removed. The tail-lift may be either
reconfigured to remain within the space envelope or removed. Dependent on the type and internal
space of the aircraft employed, components such as mirrors, spare tires and other attachments may
require removal and stowage within the vehicles to enable the DSB to meet the criteria for air
transportation. Similarly, the necessity to download the DSB pallet loads and the bridging modules
from the flatracks may be required. If this proves necessary, the equipment will require installation on
the launch vehicle and the bridging modules re-loading onto suitable transport at their destination.