Four years after unveiling the first prototype, an improved version of the Iranian F-313 Qaher stealth fighter aircraft has been reveal...
Four years after unveiling the first prototype, an improved version of the Iranian F-313 Qaher stealth fighter aircraft has been revealed undergoing ground taxi trials.
The new prototype marked "08" is an experimental aircraft possibly intended to confirm the unusual aerodynamic configuration of the aircraft.
Even though the design has improved from that of 2013, the aircraft still continues to retain some major design flaws.
The wingspan is comparatively short when compared with similar aircraft to generate enough lift, especially when Iran claims the aircraft have short take off and landing capability.
The awkward placement of the engine air intake, buried in the upper wing root, will considerably block air flow to the engine while pitching up during take off or maneuvering.
Also the relatively small air intake on the first prototype when powered by a single engine is carried over to the new prototype, which now have two engines possibly the reverse engineered GE J85 turbofan.
Improvements include the enlarged cockpit that can easily accommodate a pilot with his ejection seat.
The F313 Qaher features a stealthy external design with its multi-faceted fuselage design that reduce radar cross section (RCS) by scattering the radar waves, twin canted fin tails and saw tooth landing gear doors.
Iranian defense minister has claimed the aircraft have a internal bomb bay to carry weapons, a vital addition to improve stealth.
The aircraft has a fixed canard aft of the air intake and unique downward angled wing tip device. The new prototype is also equipped with a FLIR (Forward Looking Infra-Red camera) turret usually seen on unmanned aerial vehicles to detect heat radiating objects.
Beyond its taxing capability, the airworthiness of the aircraft can only believed after a successful first flight.
