lunes, 16 de abril de 2018
A380's advantages over twinjets still 'enormous': Emirates' Clark
Emirates Airline president Tim Clark still sees advantages in operating the Airbus A380 over newer-generation long-haul twinjets like the A350 and Boeing 787. Continue reading https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/a380s-advantages-over-twinjets-still-enormous-em-447681/
Airbus’ A330neo continues toward its 2018 service entry
Press Release
Flight evaluations take two A330neo test aircraft to locations around the globe
The A330neo is demonstrating its capabilities as the newest member of Airbus’ proven and highly-reliable twin-engine A330 Family, with flight testing continuing ahead of its planned service entry in Summer 2018.
Two test aircraft have logged more than 700 hours aloft in the 200-plus flights performed as of 10 April, according to A330neo aircraft integration and flight testing integrated product team (IPT) leader Jean-Christophe Bonjour.
He noted that flight testing has covered the globe, including the cold weather validations in Kazakhstan in temperatures as low as -27° C., natural icing testing in the United States, crosswind landing evaluations in Ireland, a Bolivia-based altitude campaign at 8,000 ft., and recently-completed hot weather trials in Mexico, which had temperatures of up to 37° C.
A330neo to join Airbus’ jetliner family that seats 140-555 passengers
Crawford Hamilton, Head of A330 Marketing, said the A330neo completes Airbus’ new-generation product line, which begins with the single-aisle A320neo Family (A319neo, A320neo and A321neo), increases in size with the A330neo (including the A330-800 and A330-900), followed by the A350 XWB (with the A350-900 and A350-1000) and completed with the A380.
“With all these aircraft, we have a true family covering seating capacities from 140 to over 550 passengers,” Hamilton explained. “Pilots that fly one of these jetliners are equipped to fly them all thanks to Airbus’ unique operational commonality, and aircraft versatility provides the range and flexibility for any type of airline operation.”
The new-generation A330neo, powered by highly-efficient Rolls-Royce Trent 7000 powerplants, has a longer wingspan with new high-efficiency Sharklets and incorporates Airbus’ innovative Airspace cabin that it has in common with the A350 XWB. These elements combined deliver the world’s most efficient, most comfortable mid-size twin-aisle airliner.
Further improving the A330neo capabilities is the launch of an increased-range version, with a nine metric tonne increase to the maximum takeoff weight to 251 metric tonnes. This provides up to 1,500 nautical miles more range when compared to typical A330s in service today, enabling airlines to open new markets, while radically improving aircraft economic efficiency, Hamilton added.
Flight evaluations take two A330neo test aircraft to locations around the globe
The A330neo is demonstrating its capabilities as the newest member of Airbus’ proven and highly-reliable twin-engine A330 Family, with flight testing continuing ahead of its planned service entry in Summer 2018.
Two test aircraft have logged more than 700 hours aloft in the 200-plus flights performed as of 10 April, according to A330neo aircraft integration and flight testing integrated product team (IPT) leader Jean-Christophe Bonjour.
He noted that flight testing has covered the globe, including the cold weather validations in Kazakhstan in temperatures as low as -27° C., natural icing testing in the United States, crosswind landing evaluations in Ireland, a Bolivia-based altitude campaign at 8,000 ft., and recently-completed hot weather trials in Mexico, which had temperatures of up to 37° C.
A330neo to join Airbus’ jetliner family that seats 140-555 passengers
Crawford Hamilton, Head of A330 Marketing, said the A330neo completes Airbus’ new-generation product line, which begins with the single-aisle A320neo Family (A319neo, A320neo and A321neo), increases in size with the A330neo (including the A330-800 and A330-900), followed by the A350 XWB (with the A350-900 and A350-1000) and completed with the A380.
“With all these aircraft, we have a true family covering seating capacities from 140 to over 550 passengers,” Hamilton explained. “Pilots that fly one of these jetliners are equipped to fly them all thanks to Airbus’ unique operational commonality, and aircraft versatility provides the range and flexibility for any type of airline operation.”
The new-generation A330neo, powered by highly-efficient Rolls-Royce Trent 7000 powerplants, has a longer wingspan with new high-efficiency Sharklets and incorporates Airbus’ innovative Airspace cabin that it has in common with the A350 XWB. These elements combined deliver the world’s most efficient, most comfortable mid-size twin-aisle airliner.
Further improving the A330neo capabilities is the launch of an increased-range version, with a nine metric tonne increase to the maximum takeoff weight to 251 metric tonnes. This provides up to 1,500 nautical miles more range when compared to typical A330s in service today, enabling airlines to open new markets, while radically improving aircraft economic efficiency, Hamilton added.
Rolls-Royce and Goa Shipyard Limited agree to manufacture MTU engines in India
Press Release
- Goa Shipyard Limited will assemble MTU Series 8000 engines in India
- Agreement covers assembly of 16- and 20-cylinder engines in new facility in Goa
- Agreement is part of Rolls-Royce’s commitment to “Make in India”
Pune, India
Rolls-Royce and Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL), a premier defence shipbuilding yard in India under the Ministry of Defence, have agreed to cooperate in the local manufacturing of technologically-advanced MTU Series 8000 engines in India. Under the agreement, which was signed today at India’s leading defense trade show Defexpo, the companies will assemble the 16-cylinder and 20-cylinder MTU Series 8000 engines at GSL’s new facility in Goa. The MTU brand is a worldwide leader in large diesel and gas engines and complete propulsion systems and part of Rolls-Royce Power Systems.
The agreement includes transfer of MTU technology related to localising of engine components, engine assembly, testing, painting and major overhauls. MTU Series 8000 engines are the largest and most powerful MTU diesel engines with a power output of up to 10 MW. They are fitted onboard all Offshore Patrol Vessels (OPV) recently constructed or currently under construction in India. This includes eleven Coast Guard OPVs by GSL (six completed and five under construction), five Naval OPVs under construction at Reliance Defence Engineering and seven Coast Guard OPVs by L&T.
RAdm (Retd) Shekhar Mital, NM, Chairman & Managing Director of GSL said: “In line with the thrust on indigenization and ‘Make in India’ initiative of the MoD, Government of India, GSL has been on the forefront for increasing the indigenous content onboard vessels constructed at GSL. Since main diesel engines constitute the heart of a ship and are among the major high value imported equipment items onboard ships, the collaboration will aid to significantly increase the indigenous content onboard ships constructed in India. It will also provide a strategic edge to Indian Defence Sector as know-how and infrastructure for such niche technology will now be available with a PSU Shipyard, which can be gainfully utilised by the Indian Navy and Indian Coast Guard. For some time we have been on the lookout for acquiring such technology of marine propulsion engines and we are thankful to our partners Rolls-Royce and MTU Friedrichshafen for choosing us as collaborator. Under the agreement we will be catering for marine propulsion requirements within the country in the range of 7 to 10 MW. The new facility being created by GSL will also undertake all major overhauls of these engines.
This venture will be a game changer. Plans are in place to progressively increase the indigenous content and with a strong manufacturing base in India, we are confident of achieving significant indigenous content in these engines. Besides creating self-reliance for India, it will usher in new opportunities for the local industry for indigenisation. I’m sure that with favourable Government policies and thrust on indigenisation, this collaboration will be highly successful.”
Praveen Mohan, Director & CEO, MTU India, said: “The agreement with GSL to manufacture MTU’s most-advanced Series 8000 engines in India is a significant milestone and further reinforces our commitment to ‘Make in India.’ We have been working with the Indian defence sector for several decades and our well-proven MTU engines propel and power many vessels of both the Indian Coast Guard and Indian Navy. We are committed to collaborating with our stakeholders to help support the country’s vision of indigenisation and self-reliance.”
MTU Series 8000 engines are the top-selling propulsion engines in their power class for naval vessels. They are also proven in ferries and yachts and have altogether completed over one million operating hours. Series 8000 engines are available in the power range from 7 to 10 MW. They feature low overall operating costs, high power density and environmental compatibility. Common rail fuel injection combined with the electronic engine control system make it possible to achieve fuel consumption levels of less than 200 g/kWh and very low exhaust emissions. Series 8000 engines are certified as marine engines in accordance with all accepted classification standards worldwide. They were also awarded Naval Vessel Rules (NVR) certification by the American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) in 2014 and are subsequently the first advanced technology engines in this power class to meet the stringent requirements of this certification.
50th anniversary of the trademark Fenestron
Press Release
- Celebrating one of Airbus Helicopters’ most recognizable innovations
- Continues to set new standards with the H160
On the 12th of April 1968, the first Fenestron, invented by Paul Fabre and René Mouille, took to the skies on the second prototype of the Gazelle. It has since become emblematic of Sud Aviation, Aerospatiale, Eurocopter and now Airbus helicopters with the H160 carrying this sound-reducing, safety-enhancing technology into the next generation of rotorcraft.
The idea behind shrouding the tail rotor was initially developed to provide additional safeguards for workers on the ground but also to protect the tail rotor in forward flight and in complicated operational environments, such as working around high-voltage power lines. Sound reduction benefits followed after much research and optimisation from one generation of the Fenestron to the next.
Originally called the “Fenestrou”, which is Provençal for “little window”, the term evolved into the renowned Fenestron. It was first certified on the Gazelle in 1972 and then subsequently integrated into the first single-engine Dauphin prototype, whose first flight was in June 1972. Trials were then conducted with a seven-tonne Puma in 1975, however, with its diameter of 1m60 and its 11 tail rotor blades it required too much power for the Fenestron to bring an operational advantage on this class of helicopters.
The second generation came at the end of the 1970’s with an all-composite Fenestron, which increased the diameter of the new Dauphin’s Fenestron by 20% up to 1m10. This improvement was motivated by the U.S. Coast Guards’ requirement for a highly manoeuvrable aircraft for Search and Rescue operations. The U.S. Coast Guards aircraft are still in service today and have accumulated more than 1.5 million flight hours.
In the meantime, research continued to optimise the shape of the Fenestron, blade foils, and to improve sound reduction, especially during certain phases of flight. Between 1987 and 1991 it was successfully tested on an Ecureuil, the prototype of which is still on display at the entrance to Airbus Helicopters’ headquarters in Marignane.
In 1994, the 3rd generation was fitted onto the H135 and optimized sound levels by using an uneven setting of the blades. In 1999 the H130 performed its maiden flight with a Fenestron derived from this version. The H145 followed suit in 2010.
50 years on, the H160 possesses the latest and largest Fenestron to be built on an Airbus helicopter with a diameter of 1m20. The fact that it is canted to 12° allows for improved performance with an additional payload and increased stability especially at low speed. With the H160 out to conquer the medium twin market, the Fenestron will be one of Airbus Helicopters’ signatures in the skies for decades to come.
Embraer Services & Support completes first upgrade of Phenom 300 business jet with two-person divan
Embraer Services & Support has completed the first upgrade of a Phenom 300 light business jet with a two-person divan, increasing cabin passenger capacity to 11 occupants, the highest in its class. The announcement was made at the Embraer Executive Operators Conference, in Austin Texas, a joint event hosted by Embraer Services & Support and the Embraer Jet Owners Association.
“I am very excited to share this news with our Phenom 300 customers around the world,” said Johann Bordais, President & CEO, Embraer Services & Support. “And I also want to congratulate our teams for developing this solution to make our Phenom 300 customers even happier. At each of our service centers, our teams are eagerly awaiting the privilege of serving our Phenom 300 customers with this special upgrade for their aircraft.”
The first upgrade was completed at Embraer’s Customer Service Center in Sorocaba, Brazil, through the implementation of a service bulletin, which is now available and applicable to the entire global fleet of more than 430 Phenom 300 in operation in about 30 countries. The divan, positioned at the front of the cabin facing the entrance and the refreshment center, was already available as an option in one of three cabin layouts in new Phenom 300 just as it is in the new Phenom 300E, which entered service in the first quarter of this year. Developed by maintenance engineers and technicians, the divan upgrade is being made available to Phenom 300 customers at all 70 owned and authorized service centers worldwide, leveraging existing maintenance team skills and resources.
Boeing HorizonX Invests in Reaction Engines, a UK Hypersonic Propulsion Company
press release
- Hypersonic propulsion technology enables high-speed point-to-point transport
- First investment in a UK company by Boeing HorizonX Ventures
Boeing [NYSE: BA] announced its investment in Reaction Engines Limited, a leader in advanced propulsion systems based in Oxfordshire, United Kingdom. Reaction Engines' technology will contribute to the next generation of hypersonic flight and space access vehicles.
Reaction Engines is known for its Synergetic Air-Breathing Rocket Engine (SABRE), a hybrid engine blending jet and rocket technology that is capable of Mach 5 in air-breathing mode and Mach 25 in rocket mode for space flight. As part of the SABRE program, Reaction Engines developed an ultra-lightweight heat exchanger that stops engine components from overheating at high speeds, thus improving access to hypersonic flight and space.
"As Reaction Engines unlocks advanced propulsion that could change the future of air and space travel, we expect to leverage their revolutionary technology to support Boeing's pursuit of hypersonic flight," said Steve Nordlund, vice president of Boeing HorizonX.
Founded by three propulsion engineers in 1989, Reaction Engines produces robust technical designs for advanced heat exchangers, air-breathing engines, and the vehicles they could power. These capabilities may lead to high-speed point-to-point transport that is cost-effective and sustainable.
"Boeing is a world-leader in many fields, bringing invaluable expertise in hypersonic research and space systems. I am thrilled and honored that Boeing HorizonX has chosen Reaction Engines as its first UK investment," said Mark Thomas, CEO of Reaction Engines. "This is a very exciting step that will contribute to our efforts to develop a commercial technology business and accelerate opportunities to further the future of air and space travel through SABRE technology."
Boeing HorizonX Ventures participated in this $37.3 million Series B funding round alongside Rolls-Royce Plc and BAE Systems. The Boeing HorizonX Ventures investment portfolio is made up of companies specializing in technologies for aerospace and manufacturing innovations, including autonomous systems, energy storage, advanced materials, augmented reality systems and software, machine learning, hybrid-electric propulsion and Internet of Things connectivity.
Boeing is the world's largest aerospace company and leading manufacturer of commercial jetliners and defense, space and security systems. A top U.S. exporter, the company supports airlines and U.S. and allied government customers in more than 150 countries.
Boeing employs more than 2,200 people across the UK at numerous sites, and in 2018 the company celebrates 80 years of partnership with British customers, suppliers, manufacturing, the Armed Forces and the air transport industry. Today, the UK remains a critically important market, supplier base and a source of some of the world's most innovative technology partners.
Bombardier Announces Extended Range of 7,700 Nautical Miles for Global 7000 Aircraft. Bombardier Global 7000 Jet Wins Top International Award for Excellence in Product Design
Press Release
- The Global 7000 aircraft is now the largest and the longest range business jet ever built, and is able to fly a full 300 nautical miles farther than initial commitment
- This highly anticipated aircraft is on track for its first delivery during the second half of 2018, with more than 1,800 hours of flight testing accomplished and interior completions well under way at Bombardier’s state-of-the-art facilities in Montreal
- The revolutionary Global 7000 aircraft redefines business jet travel, featuring four distinct living spaces, a complete kitchen and a full-size crew suite while delivering an exceptionally smooth ride
Bombardier is proud to reveal that its marquee Global 7000 business jet, having completed multiple long-range flights around the world, now boasts an outstanding range of 7,700 nautical miles, connecting more city pairs than any other business aircraft.
“We are thrilled to offer this extended range to our loyal customers, who are the driving force behind our engineering feats and who will soon own an aircraft that simply has no peer,” said David Coleal, President, Bombardier Business Aircraft. “Not only are we standing by our commitment to begin delivering Global 7000 aircraft this year, we are exceeding expectations along the way.”
Global 7000 flight test vehicles have completed several long-haul flights to destinations including Sydney, Dubai and Hawaii. This rigorous flight test program has demonstrated the aircraft’s incredible reach, and Bombardier’s ability to surpass its commitments.
The new 7,700-nautical-mile baseline range will be a feature on the Global 7000 aircraft for all existing and future customers. This enhanced performance will come at no additional cost to customers.
The Global 7000 aircraft, the most spacious and longest range business jet ever built, is on track to enter service during the second half of 2018. The flight test program is progressing to plan, with all five test vehicles in flight. The flight test program, which began in November 2016, has completed more than 1,800 hours of flight testing and is currently finalizing certification for the aircraft.
With a maximum operating range of 7,700 nautical miles, the Global 7000 aircraft can fly farther than any other business jet. The aircraft was widely publicized as being able to connect some of the world’s most expansive city pairings, including such routes as New York to Shanghai, and Singapore to Seattle. Today, Bombardier can confirm that with its extended range, the Global 7000 aircraft is the only business aircraft that can connect New York to Hong Kong, and Singapore to San Francisco.*
On any flight, short or long, the Global 7000 aircraft’s advanced wing optimizes speed, range and control, ensuring an exceptionally smooth ride.
The success of the Global 7000 flight test program speaks to the spirit of innovation at Bombardier, and to the hard work that has resulted in significant milestones along this aircraft’s journey toward entering service.
Just five months into testing, this high-speed aircraft set a record as the largest business jet to operate so close to the sound barrier, reaching a milestone top speed of Mach 0.995.
And while the Global 7000 flight test vehicles are outperforming expectations in the skies, interior completions work on our customer aircraft is well under way at Bombardier’s state-of-the-art facilities in Montreal.
With its four true living spaces, the Global 7000 aircraft is unique among business jets in spaciousness, luxurious comfort and design flexibility. Its leading-edge cabin entertainment system, coupled with ultra-fast connection speeds via Ka-band, allows passengers to stream high-definition content and enjoy a reliable entertainment experience. The Global 7000 aircraft’s modern and multi-functional kitchen features unprecedented storage space for an exceptional dining experience.
The Bombardier Global 7000 aircraft is a 2018 Red Dot Award winner for Product Design.
Bombardier Global 7000 Jet Wins Top International Award for Excellence in Product Design
- Bombardier’s Global 7000 business jet received the Red Dot in the 2018 Red Dot Award: Product Design in the ships, trains and planes category for its leading and well-thought-out design
- The Red Dot Design Award is one of the most sought-after honours for design and innovation excellence worldwide
- Bombardier’s Global 7000 business jet was selected by the 39-person jury from among a crowded field of entries
- The Global 7000 aircraft is a virtual showcase for design innovation, from the industry’s most well-appointed full-size kitchen and spacious bedroom, to its ergonomically engineered seats
- The Global 7000 aircraft is on track to enter service in the second half of 2018
Bombardier today announced that its show-stopping Global 7000 business jet has been honoured with a Red Dot in the 2018 Red Dot Award: Product Design. Established in 1955, the Red Dot Design Award is a prestigious international design competition and one of the most sought-after recognitions for design and innovation excellence worldwide. This year’s winners were announced on April 9 in Essen, Germany.
“The Global 7000 aircraft redefines standards by which a business jet is measured, and we are very pleased that the jury chose to acknowledge our vision with a Red Dot for high design quality,” said
Brad Nolen, Vice President, Marketing and Product Strategy, Bombardier Business Aircraft. “We like to refer to our clean-sheet Global 7000 aircraft as ‘the aircraft designed without compromise.’ The aircraft succeeds not only in elevating the overall in-flight experience, it also ups the ante for performance, speed and range, and it is clearly changing the game in the private jet industry.”
Bombardier’s Global 7000 business jet was selected by the 39-person jury from among a crowded field, with more than 6,300 submissions from close to 60 countries competing in several categories. The state-of-the art aircraft received the Red Dot in the 2018 Red Dot Award: Product Design in the ships, trains and planes category. The strict judging criteria focused on the level of innovation, functionality, formal quality, ergonomics and durability, among others.
“Success in the competition is proof of the good design quality of the products and once again shows that companies are on the right path. When I speak about good design, I am referring to more than just an attractive product. All of the products are characterized by outstanding functionality.
This demonstrates that the designers have understood their clients and their needs,” said Professor Dr. Peter Zec, founder and CEO of the Red Dot Award.
In addition to its signature smooth ride, Bombardier’s Global 7000 aircraft, which is scheduled to enter service in the second half of 2018, is a virtual showcase for design innovation. A masterpiece of creative and thoughtful design, the Global 7000 aircraft’s sophisticated styling sets the benchmark for the most exceptional business jet experience. Every detail of the cabin interior has been crafted to create a rich and satisfying experience, from its class-leading and largest kitchen in the industry and forward-thinking lighting to the first-ever dedicated stateroom with a fixed bed.
The Red Dot Award is one of the most prestigious design awards worldwide and honours innovation, concepts and visions. All award-winning products will be featured in the Red Dot Design Yearbook as well as online.
About Bombardier
With over 69,500 employees across four business segments, Bombardier is a global leader in the transportation industry, creating innovative and game-changing planes and trains. Our products and services provide world-class transportation experiences that set new standards in passenger comfort, energy efficiency, reliability and safety.
Headquartered in Montreal, Canada, Bombardier has production and engineering sites in 28 countries across the segments of Transportation, Business Aircraft, Commercial Aircraft and Aerostructures and Engineering Services. Bombardier shares are traded on the Toronto Stock Exchange (BBD). In the fiscal year ended December 31, 2017, Bombardier posted revenues of $16.2 billion. News and information are available at bombardier.com or follow us on Twitter @Bombardier.
Terrafugia's new VTOL concept transfers detachable passenger pods between ground and sky
From Terrafugia's web: http://www.terrafugia-tf2.com/
With the recent acquisition of Terrafugia by the parent company of Volvo and Lotus, a world class team of engineers, and the creation of our new R&D facility just outside San Francisco, Terrafugia is positioning itself to be a major player in the world of automated VTOL vehicles.
Our next generation concept (TF-2) is a three-part integrated transportation system for Part 135 short haul operators who want to achieve a new level of convenience, comfort, and efficiency. With a detachable pod configuration your passengers or cargo will be able to travel seamlessly from point A to point B.
TF-2 is currently in the conceptual design stage and we are interested in collecting feedback from potential customers.
There are two concepts under consideration: a tilt-rotor (TR) and a lift-plus-push (LPP) configuration. The TR has performance advantages and the LPP has the advantage of mechanical simplicity.
Detachable pods
Features
Projected performance
With the recent acquisition of Terrafugia by the parent company of Volvo and Lotus, a world class team of engineers, and the creation of our new R&D facility just outside San Francisco, Terrafugia is positioning itself to be a major player in the world of automated VTOL vehicles.
Our next generation concept (TF-2) is a three-part integrated transportation system for Part 135 short haul operators who want to achieve a new level of convenience, comfort, and efficiency. With a detachable pod configuration your passengers or cargo will be able to travel seamlessly from point A to point B.
TF-2 is currently in the conceptual design stage and we are interested in collecting feedback from potential customers.
There are two concepts under consideration: a tilt-rotor (TR) and a lift-plus-push (LPP) configuration. The TR has performance advantages and the LPP has the advantage of mechanical simplicity.
Detachable pods
- Pod locks securely into either the flight vehicle (FV) or ground vehicle (GV).
- Pod can carry people or cargo
- Flight vehicle has one pilot plus autonomous flight capabilities
- Ground vehicle has one driver plus autonomous docking capabilities
Features
- Detachable pod moves passengers and cargo seamlessly from point A to point B
- Passengers load and unload only once
- Ride height adjustable suspension enables smooth pod loading and handicap accessibility
- Panoramic view from large side and forward windows
- Large luggage compartment for standard airline luggage (50lb/piece)
- Capacity for 4 passengers and luggage
- Cargo capacity up to 1400 lb (assuming 60 NM trip)
Projected performance
Configuration
|
Lift + Push
|
Tiltrotor
|
Passengers
|
4
|
4
|
MTOW
|
8500-9000 lb
3860-4080 kg |
7500-8000 lb
3400-3630 kg |
Payload with 30 min fuel res
|
900-1100 lb
410-500 kg |
900-1100 lb
410-500 kg |
Max cruise speed
|
120-130 kts
222-240 km/h |
170-180 kts
315-333 km/h |
Range at max payload
|
170-215 nm
315-400 km |
240-300 nm
445-555 km |
Cost per flight hour
|
$370-$410
|
$380-$420
|
F-35 Completes Most Comprehensive Flight Test Program in Aviation History
Press Release
"Completing F-35 SDD flight test is the culmination of years of hard work and dedication from the joint government and industry team," said Vice Adm. Mat Winter, F-35 Program Executive Officer. "Since the first flight of AA-1 in 2006, the developmental flight test program has operated for more than 11 years mishap-free, conducting more than 9,200 sorties, accumulating over 17,000 flight hours, and executing more than 65,000 test points to verify the design, durability, software, sensors, weapons capability and performance for all three F-35 variants. Congratulations to our F-35 Test Team and the broader F-35 Enterprise for delivering this new powerful and decisive capability to the warfighter."
The final SDD flight occurred April 11 at Naval Air Station Patuxent River, Maryland., when Navy test aircraft CF-2 completed a mission to collect loads data while carrying external 2,000-pound GBU-31 Joint Direct Attack Munitions (JDAM) and AIM-9X Sidewinder heat-seeking missiles.
From flight sciences to mission systems testing, the critical work completed by F-35 test teams cleared the way for the Block 3F capability to be delivered to the operational warfighter. More than 1,000 SDD flight test engineers, maintainers, pilots and support personnel took the three variants of the F-35 to their full flight envelope to test aircraft performance and flying qualities. The test team conducted six at-sea detachments and performed more than 1,500 vertical landing tests on the F-35B variant. The developmental flight test team completed 183 Weapon Separation Tests; 46 Weapons Delivery Accuracy tests; 33 Mission Effectiveness tests, which included numerous multi-ship missions of up to eight F-35s against advanced threats.
"The F-35 flight test program represents the most comprehensive, rigorous and the safest developmental flight test program in aviation history," said Greg Ulmer, Lockheed Martin's vice president and general manager of the F-35 program. "The joint government and industry team demonstrated exceptional collaboration and expertise, and the results have given the men and women who fly the F-35 great confidence in its transformational capability."
Developmental flight test is a key component of the F-35 program's SDD phase, which will formally be completed following an Operational Test and Evaluation and a Department of Defense decision to go into full-rate aircraft production.
While SDD required flight test is now complete, F-35 flight testing continues in support of phased capability improvements and modernization of the F-35 air system. This effort is part of the Joint Program Office's Continuous Capability Development and Delivery (C2D2) framework, which will provide timely, affordable incremental warfighting capability improvements to maintain joint air dominance against evolving threats to the United States and its allies.
With stealth technology, advanced sensors, weapons capacity and range, the F-35 is the most lethal, survivable and connected fighter aircraft ever built. More than a fighter jet, the F-35's ability to collect, analyze and share data is a powerful force multiplier that enhances all airborne, surface and ground-based assets in the battlespace and enables men and women in uniform to execute their mission and return home safe.
For additional information, visit www.f35.com.
About Lockheed Martin
Headquartered in Bethesda, Maryland, Lockheed Martin (NYSE: LMT) is a global security and aerospace company that employs approximately 100,000 people worldwide and is principally engaged in the research, design, development, manufacture, integration and sustainment of advanced technology systems, products and services.