The CQC lightweight folding stretcher, currently supplied to the British army, offers a compact solution for front-line casualty evacuation. With rigid back support and a narrow frame it has been designed to extract casualties from difficult-to-access locations such as trenches and vehicles on the front line.
The CQC stretcher has a number of advantages over traditional stretchers: constructed from carbon fibre rods and high quality lightweight, yet durable, fabrics it is the lightest stretcher readily available to military and first responder personnel, weighing sub 5kgs. Secondly, its unique design enables it to be easily folded into its bag whilst utilising a quick-open design that enables it to be brought into operation in under five seconds.
The stretcher’s rigid back support ensures spinal immobilisation, with snap-on straps for secure patient fixation and joints that lock automatically without deformation. Folded, it sits below shoulder level to avoid helmet interference or snags in tight spaces. Once deployed it has easy access handles allowing for a four or six person carry, or alternatively a two-person drag.
Designed for military combat operations, it excels in UAV and UGV delivery/recovery, helicopter evacuation, rough terrain and confined areas, supporting search/rescue without bulk. The stretcher’s lightweight build reduces fatigue during extended carries, while robust materials withstand harsh environments.
