A Technique for Determining the Radius of Action for a Tactical Fighter Aircraft

A Technique for Determining the Radius of Action for a Tactical Fighter Aircraft

Author: William A. Miller

Publisher:

Published: 1973

Total Pages: 96

ISBN-13:

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A computer program using an iterative technique was developed for determining the radius of action of F-4E and A7-D aircraft with any configuration of external stores. The program used performamce data from the aircraft flight manuals to calculate fuel and distance required to achieve military power climbs and optimum cruise fuel consumption. Required inputs to the program include the initial amount of fuel onboard and aircraft gross weight, the cruise and loiter altitudes, and the outbound and returning drag indicies due to aerodynamic drag of the external stores. Optional inputs that provide increased accuracy include fuel for engine start and taxi, and fuel and distance for takeoff and descent. The program calculates sequential increments of the outbound cruise portion of the mission profile until the fuel reserve desired at the end of mission (return to home base) is obtained; thus the radius of action is determined. (Author).


Measuring Effects of Payload and Radius Differences of Fighter Aircraft

Measuring Effects of Payload and Radius Differences of Fighter Aircraft

Author: William Stanley

Publisher:

Published: 1993

Total Pages: 65

ISBN-13:

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This research measures how differences in F-15E and F-16C Block 50 payload and radius characteristics influence the ability of these aircraft to deliver GBU- and CBU-class weapons against a variety of target sets. For most of the air-to-ground cases examined, the effectiveness advantage of the F-15E relative to the F-16C was more than commensurate with its higher procurement and operating costs. The larger, heavier F-15E was most cost-effective in larger theaters where its payload and radius capability were best demonstrated. The smaller, lighter F-16C performed at its best in more compact theaters where combat radius was not as important.


Introduction to Aircraft Flight Mechanics

Introduction to Aircraft Flight Mechanics

Author: Thomas R. Yechout

Publisher: AIAA

Published: 2003

Total Pages: 666

ISBN-13: 9781600860782

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Based on a 15-year successful approach to teaching aircraft flight mechanics at the US Air Force Academy, this text explains the concepts and derivations of equations for aircraft flight mechanics. It covers aircraft performance, static stability, aircraft dynamics stability and feedback control.


Aircraft Combat Radius Calculation Procedure for Various Mission Profiles and External-store Configurations

Aircraft Combat Radius Calculation Procedure for Various Mission Profiles and External-store Configurations

Author: C. M. Weber

Publisher:

Published: 1969

Total Pages: 60

ISBN-13:

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An extension and revision of the HARD-1 (Handy Approximate Radius Determination) combat radius calculation procedure described in RM-5280 for aircraft carrying external stores. HARD-3 calculates the radius capability for a particular aircraft having known climb and cruise performance, fuel consumption, drag, etc. The method is somewhat more complex than HARD-1 but it provides greater flexibility and improved accuracy: a wider choice in cruise conditions is now available, and the effect on radius of non-distance-gaining fuel allowances is computed more accurately. The computer program allows for variation in the disposition of empty fuel tanks and for target-bound refueling. Although designed specifically for a ground-attack mission, the procedure may be adapted for other missions. The results compare favorably with estimates made by following the mission-planning procedures described in military flight manuals. The JOSS program is included, along with a sample set of calculations and an explanation of the equations used. (Author).