Originally Posted by
MPN11
Yes, that video of the approach at 00:40 was really eye-catching!
Video has Tom Morgenfeld ex-USN ex-LM test pilot explaining briefly the origins of 'AutoMAGIC' (his term) via the X-35C doing FCLP which he claims the FnA 18 team stole to then name as 'MAGIC CARPET'. Anyway the F-35s use IDLC Integrated Direct Lift Control to HEAVE the aircraft up and down to maintain glideslope almost instantaneously (pilot reports); with the combination of ailerons and half flaps moving (to full) as required to achieve, via computer flight controls and auto throttle to maintain Opt AoA Optimum Angle of Attack, whilst at maximum carrier landing weight, the 145 KIAS, which is below the ship gear breaking point.
Anyway there are plenty of video briefs given by USN test pilots about this from recent TAILHOOK conventions. Just say the word and I'll post 'em. This one is for the oldies who might know Tom....
