Combat Damage Tolerance and Repair of Aircraft Structures.
Abstract
The tolerance of the structure to various threats and the probability of the aircraft surviving the impact, completing the mission and returning safely to base is only part of the problem of maintaining an adequate defence capability. An aircraft is still 'lost' as an effective part of the air force if it proves impossible to repair the damage quickly, particularly in the context of a short duration conflict. Vitally important are the methods of rapid inspection and assessment of the damage to determine the extent of repair required or if repair may safely be deferred. Thus the total number of aircraft required to meet a given military situation is determined at least in part by their combat damage tolerance and repair characteristics; improvements in these characteristics can produce real reductions in defence costs. The Structures and Materials Panel of AGARD reviewed these questions at its meeting in April 1978. Three papers were presented, and are reproduced here, giving an overview of the present situation and directing attention to the areas most needing further work. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 1978
- Accession Number
- ADA057124
Entities
Organizations
- AGARD