EDWARDS AIR FORCE BASE, California. F-35 with full afterburner engaged (Courtesy Photo by Tom Reynolds/Lockheed Martin) The F-35 Integ...
EDWARDS AIR FORCE BASE, California.
The F-35 Integrated Test Force is completing a series of night flights, which are testing the aircraft's capability when flying in instrument meteorological conditions.
It is a necessary step in delivering a core ability to fly the jet safely when there are no external visibility references for the pilot.
For safety purposes and to ensure decision-quality data is collected, the ITF uses a build-up approach to conduct the night flights.
Pilots began with flying in visual meteorological conditions, familiarizing themselves with the F-35's leading-edge instrumentation.
Simulator flights, which occurred in February, also helped pilots prepare for the missions.
When the ITF completes the night flights, a variety of capabilities will have been tested including ground operations and the pilot's ability to maneuver the aircraft without becoming disoriented.
The test team is also evaluating the navigation systems, data from the instrument landing system, how well the radios work.
From ground operations to landing and taxiing the aircraft, each mission is packed with test points, so the test team gets the most out of each flight.
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| F-35 with full afterburner engaged (Courtesy Photo by Tom Reynolds/Lockheed Martin) |
It is a necessary step in delivering a core ability to fly the jet safely when there are no external visibility references for the pilot.
For safety purposes and to ensure decision-quality data is collected, the ITF uses a build-up approach to conduct the night flights.
Pilots began with flying in visual meteorological conditions, familiarizing themselves with the F-35's leading-edge instrumentation.
Simulator flights, which occurred in February, also helped pilots prepare for the missions.
When the ITF completes the night flights, a variety of capabilities will have been tested including ground operations and the pilot's ability to maneuver the aircraft without becoming disoriented.
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(Courtesy Photo by Tom Reynolds/Lockheed Martin)
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From ground operations to landing and taxiing the aircraft, each mission is packed with test points, so the test team gets the most out of each flight.
