The F-35C recently completed its drop test with full combat load. Here is the photo. Via Lockheed Martin. Notice the cluster bombs, Mk-82(?) and other ordnance on the wings. I'm assuming that a full internal load of weapons is included.
Mk-83 1,000lbs JDAMs most likely. Plus AIM-9X as well, so all bases are loaded. First time I've seen a live airframe with all external pylons attached and loaded. Nice.
i am wondering, when u attach external payloads, what happens to radar signature? i know its not as stealthy as all internal but is it still smaller than legacy fighters?
Yes the F-35 is likely to still maintain a smaller radar signature than other fighters, even with external weapons/fuel attached. Obviously not as LO as the F-35 can be, but still likely to be very good.
Additionally, EMCON and IR signature management will not be affected at all by external stores carriage and these features are also better on the F-35 than on most other fighters.
PS, for those who want to see an F-35B loaded up with external stores, you can visit here:
Mk-83 1,000lbs JDAMs most likely. Plus AIM-9X as well, so all bases are loaded. First time I've seen a live airframe with all external pylons attached and loaded. Nice.
ReplyDeletei'm sure they had to load it all up. not only for Navy bring back requirements but to keep the hounds at bay that have been barking at the program.
ReplyDeletei am wondering, when u attach external payloads, what happens to radar signature? i know its not as stealthy as all internal but is it still smaller than legacy fighters?
ReplyDeleteFrom the front, the turbine disk(s) on other aircraft is a bright sparkly radar reflector. Hey! Here I am!
ReplyDeleteOnly the B-1B, B-2, and F-22 have the S-shaped intakes like the F-35, which hide the disks from radar.
Joe,
ReplyDeleteYes the F-35 is likely to still maintain a smaller radar signature than other fighters, even with external weapons/fuel attached. Obviously not as LO as the F-35 can be, but still likely to be very good.
Additionally, EMCON and IR signature management will not be affected at all by external stores carriage and these features are also better on the F-35 than on most other fighters.
PS, for those who want to see an F-35B loaded up with external stores, you can visit here:
http://www.militaryphotos.net/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=117369
Cheers,
AD