AIRCRAFT TECHNOLOGY
Abstract
The Aircraft Technology activity develops technologies for enhanced capability of naval aviation aircraft platforms in terms of mission effectiveness, platform range, responsiveness, survivability, observability, readiness, safety and life cycle cost. It also develops new Naval air vehicle concepts and high impact, scaleable naval air vehicle technologies, such as - autonomous air vehicle command and control, helicopter and tiltrotor rotor systems, aerodynamics, propulsion systems, materials, structures and flight controls for future and legacy air vehicles. This activity directly supports the Naval Aviation Enterprise Science and Technology Objectives and the Naval Science and Technology Strategic Plan, principally in the Autonomy and Unmanned Systems, Platform Design and Survivability, Power and Energy and Total Ownership Cost Focus Areas, Sea-Based Aviation was designated as a National Naval Responsibility (SBA NNR) in FY 2011 and will refocus investments beginning in FY 2014 in areas that are Naval unique or dominated by Naval requirements. FY 2013 funding increase due to two programs that began in FY12 and are ramping up in FY 2013: Variable Cycle Advanced Technology (VCAT) and Autonomous Aerial Cargo/Utility System (AACUS). VCAT will identify and mature critical, relevant variable/adaptive cycle propulsion system technologies for the next generation carrier-based TACAIR/ISR systems. AACUS will develop advanced autonomous capabilities to enable rapid resupply of distributed forces in the short term. The SBA NNR Structures and Materials program is also ramping up in FY 2013. This program will develop the next generation structural capability and material response science for aircraft technology in fixed and rotary wing, manned and unmanned airframe technology to achieve reduced weight, increased durability, strength, streamlined manufacturability, reduced life-cycle cost and maintenance/readiness gaps improvements. Program payoffs include increased availability/readiness, reduced sustainment requirements, fatigue/loads life enhancement, reduced weight and improved range, and advanced prognostics design tools. Beginning in FY 2014, applied research efforts will begin under the Sea-Based Aviation National Naval Responsibility (SBA NNR) Propulsion thrust area as well, resulting in the funding increase in FY 2014. These efforts addresses unique attributes to propulsion and power technologies for Naval Aviation, as well as those having higher importance to Naval Aviation and some that are more pervasive to all of military aviation. Related basic research efforts are addressed under 0601153N.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Accomplishment
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 2014
- Source ID
- f929b4c41ef795c306f9329d02f3be24