| Boeing
X-32 is an experimental prototype demonstrator for the Joint Strike
Fighter Programme. The aim is to develop an affordable
next-generation aircraft with a common design that can be used in
three different versions that will replace aging aircraft.
Boeing has built two concept demonstrator aircraft called X-32A
and X-32B. The X-32A concept demonstrator made its first
flight on 18 September, 2000, and completed its flight test
program on Feb. 3, 2001. The X-32B made its first flight March 29,
2001 and at present is being tested to validate the Boeing
direct-lift approach to STOVL flight.
The Boeing X-32 is has a simple, modular airframe design. The
competion criteria set forth by the U.S. government is that the
aircraft has to have a common design and to have the ability to be
produced in three different versions:
- Short take-off and vertical landing version to replace its
AV-8B Harrier and F/A-18 Hornet
- Conventional takeoff and landing (CTOL) version to replace the
F-16 and A-10, and to complement the F-22A Raptor
- Carrier-based strike fighter to complement the F/A-18E/F Super
Hornet and to replace the A-6
Each of these variants must perform unique missions and flight
characteristics and share a high level of commonality to reduce
costs.
Boeing X-32 (JSF) Specifications
Type: Experimental Prototype
Demonstrator for the Joint Strike Fighter
Country:
USA
Main Powerplant: 1 x Pratt &
Whitney F119-PW-100 turbofan
Empty Weight: 10,200 kg
Maximum Take-Off Weight: 22,700 kg
Length: 13.6 m
Span: 11,0 m
Wing Area: 55 sq m
Crew: 1
Maximum Speed: Aprroximately Mach
1.5
History of Boeing X-32
In 1997 Boeing merged with McDonnell Douglas who had developed
F-22, F-15, F/A-18E/F and AV-8B. This experience allowed Boeing to
take maximum advantage of McDonnell Douglas' extensive military
airplane and fighter heritage to strengthen the Joint Strike Fighter
team.
16
November 1996 Boeing
is awarded a $660-million Joint Strike Fighter contract to
proceed with 51-month Concept Demonstration program.
11
August 1997
Boeing
completes two significant propulsion tests validating operability
goals for JSF propulsion system components and concept design.
5
February 1998 Boeing
announces Palmdale, California as the final assembly site for its
X-32 concept demonstrators.
14
April 1998 Boeing
completes the detail design of major forward fuselage components for
the two JSF X-32 concept demonstrator aircraft.
22
June 1998 Pratt
& Whitney begins tests on the first JSF X-32 engine.
4
Novemeber 1998 Boeing
delivers first JSF X-32 single-unit wing skin to Palmdale, Calif.,
for assembly.
2
Decemeber 1998 Boeing
completes final design review of its X-32 concept demonstration
aircraft with the U.S. Defense Department's JSF Joint Program
Office.
4
February 1999 Boeing
announces JSF design update for configuration.
9
April 1999 Boeing
737 Avionics Flying Laboratory for the JSF program makes first
flight in Wichita.
30
July 1999 Boeing
powers up Joint Strike Fighter X-32A Concept Demonstrator.
11
November 1999 Pratt
& Whitney completes assembly of the flight-test engine for the
JSF X-32A.
10
December 1999 Boeing
begins JSF avionics testing aboard 737 Avionics Flying Laboratory.
14
December 1999 Boeing
unveils both X-32 JSF demonstration aircraft.
22
February 2000 Boeing
announces JSF will feature voice-recognition technology.
24
May 2000 X-32A
completes low- and medium-speed taxi tests.
8
June 2000 Boeing
demonstrates JSF weapon-system capabilities in live-fire exercise.
19
July 2000 Propulsion
system installed in X-32B STOVL concept demonstrator.
17
August 2000 Boeing
selects Martin-Baker to produce JSF ejection seat
18
September 2000 X-32A
completes first flight at
Edwards Air Force Base, California
23
September 2000
X-32A
completes second flight
15
November 2000 X-32A
begins simulated aircraft carrier landing tests
20
December 2000 X-32A
completes first aerial refueling
21
December 2000 X-32A
completes supersonic flight
10
January 2001 X-32B
completes low- and medium-speed taxi tests.
26
January 2001 X-32A
completes flight-test with loaded weapons bay.
3
February 2001 X-32A
completes flight testing.
9
March 2001
X-32B completes maximum-thrust engine runs.
22
March 2001 X-32B
completes final flight-certification tests.
29
MArch 2001 X-32B
completes first flight.
16
April 2001 X-32B
completes first in-flight conversions to STOVL mode.
11
May 2001 X-32B
arrives at Patuxent River to complete STOVL flight testing.
Reference:
http://www.boeing.com/defense-space/military/jsf/chronology.html
Boeing's
X-32 JSF Home Page:
Picture from Boeing.
Boeing X-32
Links
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