Boeing X-53
| Boeing X-53 | |
|---|---|
 X-53 with AAW |
|
| Type: | Technology demonstrator |
| Design country: | |
| Manufacturer: | |
| First flight: |
November 2002 |
| Commissioning: |
In flight testing |
| Number of pieces: |
1 |
The Boeing X-53 is a technology demonstrator as part of the "Active Aeroelastic Wing" program (AAW; German: active aeroelastic wing) based on the F / A-18A Hornet .
history
The AAW program, a research project by the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL), Boeing Phantom Works, and Dryden Flight Research Center (DFRC), is researching aerodynamic properties, active controls, and advanced designs to make better use of wings . This is to be achieved by means of control elements on the leading and trailing edges of the wings, which are controlled via a digital flight control unit. The special controls are designed to make better use of the curve in the wing. At high speeds, they are able to ensure high maneuverability with low structural loads. When used correctly, the wings flex less and in the opposite direction than conventional wings.
The modified F / A-18A Hornet first flew in November 2002 and was designated X-53 on December 8, 2006.
photos
Wing loading test of the AAW in fast motion
Test flight of the F-18A with AAW
See also
Web links
- http://www.boeing.com/assocproducts/aaw/ (link not available)
- Images of the X-53 ( Memento from March 14, 2015 in the Internet Archive )
- Interview with a test pilot (podcast, English)