StarDestroyer.Net BBS

Looks like the MoD has a new toy.

http://www.newscientist.com/news/news.jsp?id=ns99993590

Interesting.

Looks like an odd combination of the F-22 and YF-23

Nathan F wrote:Interesting.

Looks like an odd combination of the F-22 and YF-23

The name "replica" seems apt. I wonder what will become of this craft though in the future. Maybe a potential UAV fighter to help with the F-35 and EFA.

Admiral Valdemar wrote:

Nathan F wrote:Interesting.

Looks like an odd combination of the F-22 and YF-23

The name "replica" seems apt. I wonder what will become of this craft though in the future. Maybe a potential UAV fighter to help with the F-35 and EFA.

No, I couldn't see a combat UAV having any kind of major role, as the control systems are still quite primitive. Any UAV with current technology would be slaughtered by any manned aircraft.

Plus, this one has a definite cockpit, and they wouldn't make a test model with an unnecessary bulge, as it would have a major effect on the aerodynamics.

Nathan F wrote:

Admiral Valdemar wrote:

Nathan F wrote:Interesting.

Looks like an odd combination of the F-22 and YF-23

The name "replica" seems apt. I wonder what will become of this craft though in the future. Maybe a potential UAV fighter to help with the F-35 and EFA.

No, I couldn't see a combat UAV having any kind of major role, as the control systems are still quite primitive. Any UAV with current technology would be slaughtered by any manned aircraft.

Plus, this one has a definite cockpit, and they wouldn't make a test model with an unnecessary bulge, as it would have a major effect on the aerodynamics.

Well that was just one thought that came into my head and it is 4am here.

They have also drawn up plans for unmanned EFAs before, smaller, faster and more agile. Still waaay off, but a good idea is to have two accompany the main pilot aircraft and act as escorts on wild weasel for instance.

AV Pro has some good ideas for stealthy UAVs.

Interesting bird...

Wonder when the first flight will be...