What are the two main types of ejection seats used in military aircraft?

The correct answer is the classification of ejection seats into rocket-assisted and catapult-assisted types.

Rocket-assisted ejection seats utilize a rocket motor to propel the seat and the occupant out of the aircraft in an emergency situation. This design is particularly effective for high-speed and high-altitude ejections, as the additional thrust provided by the rocket helps ensure that the seat clears the aircraft structure quickly and safely, allowing for proper deployment of the parachute afterward.

Catapult-assisted ejection seats, on the other hand, use a catapult mechanism to launch the seat from the aircraft. This type is often employed in older aircraft and is typically simpler in design. The catapult mechanism may be suitable for lower-speed aircraft, where the conditions for ejection don't necessitate the added complexities of a rocket system.

Understanding these two main types is critical for recognizing the operational capabilities and limitations of ejection seats within military aviation, especially in emergency scenarios where rapid egress from the aircraft is necessary for crew survival.