Rockwell-MBB X-31
The Rockwell-Messerschmitt-Bölkow-Blohm X-31 is an experimental jet aircraft designed to test fighter thrust vectoring technology. It was designed and built by Rockwell and Messerschmitt-Bölkow-Blohm (MBB), as part of a joint United States and German Enhanced Fighter Maneuverability program to provide additional control authority in pitch and yaw, for significantly more maneuverability than most conventional fighters. An advanced flight control system provided controlled flight at high angles of attack where conventional aircraft would stall or lose control. Two aircraft were built, of which one has survived.
Summary from Wikipedia, photo via Wikimedia Commons, licensed under CC BY-SA.
- Manufacturer
- Rockwell International
- First flight
- 1990-10-11
- Length
- 12.21 m
- Wingspan
- 7.26 m
Specifications
- Max speed
- 782 kt
- Service ceiling
- 40,000 ft
- Rate of climb
- 42,900 ft/min
- Max takeoff weight
- 15,935 lb
- Empty weight
- 11,409 lb
- Powerplant
- General Electric F404-GE-400
- Engines
- 1
- Seats
- 1
- Length
- 43 ft
- Wingspan
- 23 ft
- Height
- 15 ft
- Number built
- 2
Specifications are approximate and may vary by variant. Compiled from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA).
Reference and training only. Specifications vary by variant — consult the manufacturer and the official documents.