With the emergence of thrust-vectoring aircraft such as the X-31 and F-22, new questions arise regarding the maximum potential of this technology for increasing air-to-air combat effectiveness. Recent dome-to-dome (man-in-the-loop) simulations have demonstrated a significant increase in close-in air combat effectiveness with the addition of thrust vector capability. Much of this increased effectiveness can be attributed to the ability of the thrust-vectoring aircraft to continue maneuvering while operating well beyond conventional aircraft stall limits. Such poststall maneuvering (PST) can dramatically increase an aircraft's turn rate while simultaneously minimizing its turn radius, providing a significant tactical advantage in close in air combat. Comparisons with all-digital (computer-in- the-loop) simulations under the same test conditions, however, show that the combat effectiveness of PST is consistently greater within the all-digital analyses than within the all-manned analyses. These comparisons are summarized and whether pilots may require supplemental assistance in order to exploit the full potential of PST utility is considered. Through analysis of both man- and computer-in-the-loop combat simulations, requirements for pilot assistance were tentatively identified, along with some of the methods applicable to meeting these requirements. These methods include expanded training, improved displays, and increased automation. The results of this analysis, based upon the studies available to date, are presented. Plans for further analysis and validation studies are described.
Requirements for Pilot Assistance in a Thrust-Vectoring Combat Aircraft
1993
15 pages
Report
No indication
English
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