backseatjock
29th Nov 2012, 01:51
An F-35A Lightning II CTOL aircraft rapidly expanded its high angle of attack test envelope to its 50 degree limit in only four flights during recent flight testing from Edwards AF base, California this week.
F-35A test aircraft are limited to AOAs of 20 degrees until their controllability is proven at a higher AOA limit of 50 degrees. The ability to rapidly progress to the maximum AOA indicates a sound aerodynamic and flight control system design.
High AOA testing will continue on the F-35A for several months testing the capabilities of all design loadings and the flight control system.
F-35 High Angle of Attack Testing - YouTube
F-35A test aircraft are limited to AOAs of 20 degrees until their controllability is proven at a higher AOA limit of 50 degrees. The ability to rapidly progress to the maximum AOA indicates a sound aerodynamic and flight control system design.
High AOA testing will continue on the F-35A for several months testing the capabilities of all design loadings and the flight control system.
F-35 High Angle of Attack Testing - YouTube