High angle of attack testing completed by F-35A
NewsMay 17, 2013
EDWARDS AIR FORCE BASE, CA. Lockheed Martin's F-35A team completed high angle of attack (AOA) testing beyond positive and negative maximum command limits. This includes intentionally putting the aircraft out of control in several configurations.
During the test the F-35A initially flew in stealth clean wing configuration, which was then followed by testing with external air-to-air pylons and missiles and after that with open weapon bay doors. Edge-of-the-envelope high AOA testing for the F-35A began during the fall of last year. Recovery from out of control flight for all testing has been completed without having to use the spin recovery chute, which is carried for safety.
