|
 Tests Validate Aerodynamics
The Lockheed Martin JSF team successfully vali-dated the aerodynamic designs of its JSF variants in both low- and high-speed wind tunnel tests last November. The latest aerodynamic designs of all three variants–the conventional takeoff and landing variant for the US Air Force; the short takeoff and vertical landing variant for the US Marine Corps, Royal Air Force, and Royal Navy; and the carrier-suitable variant for the US Navy. The same basic one-fifteenth-scale model was used for all testing because of the design commonality of the three variants. Different wing and tail surfaces and appropriate fairings were attached to replicate the different variants.
“Because of the high degree of aerodynamic similarity between our current design and the X-35 concept demonstrator aircraft that will fly this year, we are confident of the relevance of the data,” said Gerry Murff, director of the JSF design team. “Our work on meeting the customer’s aerodynamic performance requirements will help give us a low-risk entry into the Engineeri |
