The Joint Strike Fighter's future utility as a carrier-based aircraft has been demonstrated through a recent flight evaluation of control laws for Lockheed Martin's short take-off and vertical landing F-35B, and by the completion of a critical design review for the US Navy's carrier variant.
Qinetiq and a UK Ministry of Defence test team performed a series of ship rolling vertical landings (SRVL) aboard the French navy's aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle last month using the company's VAAC Harrier testbed, which is being used to de-risk operations of the STOVL variant JSF. The SRVL concept has interested future F-35B operators the UK and the US Marine Corps.
Qinteiq's VAAC Harrier carried out tests on board the Charles de Gaulle |
Lockheed and the JSF joint programme office conducted the air system CDR for the USN's F-35C from 18-22 June, moving the type a step closer to low-rate initial production. Lockheed says more than 90kg (200lb) has been removed from the design since late last year.
The first F-35B should fly in May 2008, with a CV example to follow by mid-2009.
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Source: Flight International
