Flight termination system (FTS) is a critical safety mechanism built into launch vehicles. If a rocket loses control or strays outside its designated safety corridor, the range safety officer or an automated onboard system triggers the FTS. This detonates explosive charges to unzip the fuel tanks or destroy the vehicle entirely, preventing it from crashing into populated areas.
Heard on the job
Range safety just confirmed the FTS is armed and we're go for launch.
Also heard as
- AFTS