The F-35B is the short-takeoff-vertical-landing (STOVL) variant of F-35, a 5th G stealth aircraft with supersonic speed. This version is designed especially for the U.S. Marine Corps, the United Kingdom’s Royal Navy and Royal Air Force and the Italian Navy and Air Force. F-35B is capable of short, even vertical, take-offs using thrust-vectoring technology.
Recent tests were performed to finally confirm and validate the working of whole STOVL system. This is the final test before it goes airborne. These tests ,carried out on especial Hover-Pit at Lockheed’s test site in Texas, did validate the Propulsion System and Aircraft Response. This testing demonstrated functional operation of all systems required for vertical flight and also measured the installed forces and moments on the aircraft during STOVL operation.
The aircraft’s propulsion system is based on shaft-driven lift fan propulsion and is capable of producing 41,100 pounds of vertical thrust. A single engine, being able to produce this much thrust is something that needs experience only Pratt & Whitney has. F135 engine, developed by P&W and a derivative of F-22′s F-122 engine, drives a Rolls-Royce lift fan. Rolls-Royce has played a key role in making STOVL system a big success; bringing into action its expertise earned over a long period of time.
F-35 on hover pit
During this extensive and detailed testing, the aircraft is enabled to simulate free-air flight. Sensors then measure engine thrust and the aircraft’s response to pilot inputs. The whole testing also demonstrates control of the doors associated with the STOVL propulsion system; engine auxiliary inlet, fan inlet, fan exit, roll posts, and doors that open to enable the Rolls-Royce three-bearing swivel duct to articulate and vector engine thrust.
In-flight testing of STOVL-mode flight will now be starting soon. First vertical landing is planned at the Naval Air Station Patuxent River, Md.
