Thread: What is up with the F-35? Part II

Originally Posted by Maxor

"Even fully loaded, the F-35’s performance doesn't change from its unencumbered configuration, he (Burbage) said."


I want to know how that is possible as the thrust to weight ratio is obviously low with a full war load versus empty ferry configuration. I understand there is way way less parasitic drag without external hard-points and anything on them but I have to think there is some change in the thrust to weight-and also center of balance. I don't know how appreciable it would be but there is no way a 29,000 lbs dry weight fighter isn't going to have slightly different characteristics with ~4000 lbs of bombs in the bay versus not. I am hoping either that this was a throw away line for a publication instead of something that an airplane design team program lead believes.

Yeah clearly a different thrust to weigh ratio will affect acceleration etc and slight changes in CoG will affect stability and hench maneouverability of the airframe. But I think just taking a glance at some numbers from Wiki looks like the changes are down in the second decimal place of the T/W ratio. Not being an Aeronautical engineer I dont know whether that is considered 'Significant" or not.

Regards

Arty

I suppose that depends on the definition of "fully loaded"; internal stores only, or external stores also? Does the F-35 have the capability of having (temporary) external hardpoints, a-la the F-22? I assume it does, so that statement doesn't really make sense. Yes, T-W ratio will definitely decrease with ordnance hanging off of the wings, even A-to-A missles.

Originally Posted by Albany Rifles

*snip comparison*

Genius! Good find!

Originally Posted by Albany Rifles

*snip comparison*

Yeeouch!

Now that was right between the eyes. "Fighter pilots make movies, bomber pilots make history!"

(Chogy is probably going to take a swing at me for that one )

Originally Posted by TopHatter

Now that was right between the eyes. "Fighter pilots make movies, bomber pilots make history!"

Is that the Air Force version of JFC Fullers quote "Artillery conquers, The Infantry occupy"