Mission Adaptive Wing System for Tactical Aircraft

Abstract

The aerodynamic cruise efficiency of the supercritical airfoil in the transonic range is well known. Adaptation of this technology to a multirole tactical aircraft system requiring Mach 2 + maximum speed and 7 + g maneuver capability is enhanced by airfoil modification capabilities. This paper describes the hardware design and development of a mission adaptive wing system utilizing smooth, variable camber leadingand trailing-edge mechanisms to optimize wing airfoil camber for all flight conditions. Development included design and manufacture of a full-scale wing test component to demonstrate system capability and reliability.