The air inflatable retarder (AIR) is inflated by what method?

The air inflatable retarder (AIR) utilizes a design that allows it to be inflated by ram air entering through four inlets located within the retarder itself. This method is effective because as the aircraft moves forward, the airflow enters these inlets and fills the retarder, allowing it to deploy and function properly during airdrop operations.

This approach leverages the aerodynamic forces acting on the retarder, making it efficient in its operation without the need for additional mechanical systems or human intervention. Other methods, such as using compressed gas or manual pumping, may require extra equipment or effort that could complicate the deployment process, while a chemical reaction would introduce safety risks and potential failures. Thus, the ram air inflation method is not only practical but also reliable, ensuring proper performance when the retarder is deployed.