F-16 Fighting Falcon
A multirole fighter whose deliberately unstable aerodynamics are made flyable by software.
Overview
The F-16 is a common example of deliberate instability in aircraft design. Left to itself the aircraft does not hold its course; the flight control computer applies corrections many times per second.
The choice increases manoeuvrability: a stable aircraft resists changing direction, while an unstable one turns readily. The price is that without its electronics the aircraft cannot be flown at all.
A side-stick controller and reclined seat were chosen to extend how long a pilot can endure high g-forces. In fighter design the limit is often the human's rather than the machine's.
Details
- Brand
- Lockheed Martin
- Category
- Fighter Aircraft
- Body
- Multirole fighter
- Propulsion
- turbofan
- Produced
- 1978–