Blended Wing Body - Next Generation Aircraft
Abstract
In partnership with other government agencies, allies, industry stakeholders, and private investors, the Blended Wing Body (BWB) aircraft design, manufacture, certification, and flight test campaign will demonstrate a 30% increase in aerodynamic efficiency over traditional tube-and-wing aircraft. For military applications, initial analysis shows increased combat capability for both aerial refueling and cargo aircraft (e.g. an aircraft with 30% increased aerodynamic efficiency, with current commercial off-the-shelf engine technology, can provide at least 60% increased aerial refueling offload at range). Project goals include flight demonstration of a large prototype BWB aircraft with advanced aerodynamic and structural design features for increased fuel efficiency and decreased noise footprint that scales up or down to enable acquisition by a broader community of government and industry stakeholders. This project works in coordination with DOD's Chief Sustainability Officer and the Air Force Operational Energy office.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Accomplishment
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 2025
- Source ID
- ae53695a7e72dd78a28772fc71dbeb61
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- Root: Tech Transition Program