Some believe that the introduction of expandable inflatable wings on fighter aircraft would not be a worthy modification of current fighter aircraft because it would not enhance performance. Additionally critics of such modifications believe it is an unworthy viable alternative to current designs. Yet we see recent Mig Aircraft designs with sweeping wings and current US fighter aircraft with swing wings and an inflatable wing does all this without large motors and complex system to move those wings.
We believe that for most fighter aircraft, which do not store over 25% of their fuel in their wings and/or have thrust vectoring systems currently available or are in the works to have such kits available for modification would be good candidates. We believe that in super cruise the efficiency and fuel, which would be saved to be at the 25% of the fuel, which will no longer be stored in their wings. Furthermore the shape changing tactics used will create the stability needed in the absence of the wings.
We do believe that such strategies of expandable inflatable wings using the new materials, which are now available should be looked at by aircraft designers in order to stay efficient.
Some may contend that this is not a worth or even viable alternative to current designs, we completely disagree, as we see new designs come out of Phantom Works and UCAVs they will need the ability for longer range, faster speeds to the battlespace and greater ability to loiter in the net-centric grid to support all components of our arsenal. Indeed anyone who comes to any other conclusion is simply unaware of the advances in materials, the future of robotic warfare or the cross category hybrids of vehicles, which must be used to WIN in this new paradigm of warfare. Of course too we should include those who cling to old theories of military strategy and 1970’s aerospace design in the intellectually challenged and bureaucratic world of academia. Screw em’, this is about winning. Think on that critics.
“Lance Winslow” – If you have innovative thoughts and unique perspectives, come think with Lance;