F-35A Achieves Maximum High Angle Of Attack Limit In Four Flights
An F-35A Lightning II conventional takeoff and landing (CTOL) aircraft
rapidly expanded its high angle of attack (AOA) test envelope to its 50 degree
limit in only four flights during recent flight testing here.
F-35A test aircraft are limited to AOAs of 20 degrees until their
controllability is proven at a higher AOA limit of 50 degrees.
The ability to rapidly progress to the maximum AOA indicates a sound
aerodynamic and flight control system design. High AOA testing will continue on
the F-35A for several months testing the capabilities of all design loadings and
the flight control system.
