USN Aircraft Carrier Catapult Holdback Tension Bar Purple. Navy aircraft carrier catapult tension bar, a service-used component of the holdback mechanism used during steam catapult launches. This pink-coded bar matches documented Navy catapult tension / holdback hardware, identical in form and machining to confirmed examples used aboard U. These bars were engineered to hold an aircraft in place while catapult pressure built, then shear at a predetermined load, allowing the aircraft to launch safely. Navy naval aviation hardware. Catapult tension bar / holdback component. Solid machined steel construction. Central through-hole for pinning into the holdback assembly. Distinct purple color coding, consistent with Navy practice for different aircraft types or load ratings. Heavy service wear from real operational use. Stamped markings visible on end include. “AH 10-65″, “2453”, “N”. (Typical Navy/defense part marking format). Paint loss, chips, and oxidation consistent with carrier deck or aviation support use. Please review photos carefully; item shown is the exact piece you will receive. (See photos with ruler for scale). Catapult tension bars were a critical safety component in carrier aviation. After launch, broken or spent bars were removed and replaced before the next aircraft was positioned on the catapult. Navy or aircraft carrier memorabilia. Aviation museums or displays. Research, reference, or historical collections. It is NOT intended for operational or functional use.