Results from NASA Langley Experimental Studies of Multiaxis Thrust Vectoring Nozzles 881481

Future fighter aircraft must possess improved performance over a broader range of flight conditions than previously thought possible. Much of this improved performance will be directly related to propulsion system advances. In particular, multiaxis thrust vectoring nozzles have the potential of providing substantial airplane performance gains or even providing new capabilities. Because of the large benefits of multiaxis thrust vectoring, the Propulsion Aerodynamics Branch of the NASA Langley Research Center has conducted an extensive experimental research program in this area. These programs include both static and wind-on performance evaluations of a multitude of multiaxis thrust vectoring nozzle concepts. Results from some of these experimental programs are presented. Performance comparisons of several of the more feasible concepts are shown.