#STOVL

[nelc]

F-35B during the US Marines exercise Obsidian Iceberg on the stretch of Pacific Coast Highway that passes through Camp Pendleton

[usafphantom2]

20 August 1978. First flight of the British Aerospace Sea Harrier FRS.Mk 1 (XZ450) at Dunsfold aerodrome, British naval VTOL/STOVL jet fighter, reconnaissance and attack aircraft, development of the Hawker Siddeley Harrier.

@ron_eisele via X

[wheelsgoroundincircles]

Rockwell XFV-12A

Rockwell XFV-12A

by Alex Stoll

Around 1970 the Navy could not see how it was going to be able to replace its old Essex and Midway carriers with Nimitz-class supercarriers. Admiral Elmo Zumwalt directed a study of alternatives which resulted in the Sea Control Ship (SCS), a mini-carrier equipped with V/STOL fighters and ASW aircraft. The USN invited manufactures to propose demonstration programs for a new aircraft, called the V/STOL Fighter Technology Prototype, to replace the outdated Harrier and serve on the SCS or other ships much smaller than conventional carriers: BAe and MD proposed an improved Harrier and a supersonic Harrier with a PCB (Plenum-Chamber Burning) engine; Boeing and Northrop proposed jet-powered tail-sitters; Lockheed-California proposed a propeller-driven tail-sitter; and Rockwell proposed a canard-delta aircraft powered by a large and enormously powerful engine that used the ejector-lift system for V/STOL. The Navy awarded the contract to Rockwell in 1972, instead of choosing designs based on proved technology, and the XFV-12A designation (twelth in the V series, not in the F series; the F-12 was the interceptor verison of the Blackbird) was allotted. Even though the forward fuselage and landing gear of the A-4 and the wing box, air intakes, and fuel tanks of the F-4 were used to speed the program up, it still ran far behind schedule. The prototype was rolled out in December 1976 and the first flight was scheduled for 1979.

Engine Configuration For takeoff and landing, the entire engine was ducted to hollow-section "ejector flaps" (also called augmentor flaps) out along the wings and the canard by pilot command via a diverter valve box. The high-energy hot gas forced fresh air from above through the ejector flaps at a ratio of 7.5:1 to boost thrust by 70 percent. The ejector flaps could be raised or lowered to provide a smooth transition from vertical to horizontal flight or vice versa. After the XFV-12A's cancellation, de Havilland Canada designed an aircraft with ejectors build into the roots of a delta wing. GD incorporated their concept into the E-7, a F-16-based delta-winged STOVL aircraft. DHC built a large powered model and tested it in 1987. The EL system was large and control was difficult as a result of the large air mass moving through the wing root during transition, and nothing came of it (though not because the EL couldn't produce enough thrust as in the XFV-12A's case) despite the attractive low exhaust velocity.

Cancellation Rockwell and Pratt & Whitney experienced several major technical problems, and the thrust boost from the ejector flap system was never as large in the full-scale aircraft as predicted from data collected by test rigs and sub-scale models; the XFV-12A could not leave the ground. Eventually funding dried up, the SCS was canceled, and the program proved a disappointment; however, in most future ASTOVL programs, large-scale powered models were used because of the experience gained in the XFV-12A program.

[strictlyfavorites]

F-35B Lightning II STOVL

[judgemark45]

Excellent image of an AV-8B Harrier II 🇮🇹 being platformed on the STOVL ITS Cavour (C-550) aircraft carrier.

[viktorviolettaenterprises]

STOVL Fighters Collection DOWNLOAD

At the end of 1950s, the engineers had just an idea of delivering the aircraft even without a runway. Then in the beginning of 1960s, some tests conducted to test the capability of STOVL (Short Take-Off Vertical Landing) or in other word, a possibility of vertical movement of the fixed-wing aircraft, began with the "Flying bunk" in1959. Then the Hawker Siddeley Limited in Britain proposed a concept named "P1127 Kestrel" as a prototype of the VTOL fighter. Then this concept acepted and in 1969, the production of Harrier GR1 had begun. This aircraft was intended to be in use for Royal Air Force, but the Royal Navy also got their own version of FRS1 years later. These Harriers sought it's first battle experience in Falklands War in 1982 when these Harriers brought down some of the Argentine's air capability without any losses. The last of the Harrier production was in GR9 variant which subsequently substituted by the latest F-35B by the Royal Air Force.

McDonnell-Douglas AV-8B Harrier II

The USMC was also seeking the aircraft that suits for the amphibious mission. After the success of the Harrier FRS1 and GR3 variants in the Falklands War, in 1985 the USMC proposed an inquiry to acquire some of these aircrafts, with also stated that these aircrafts should be manufactured in the United States. Then BAe Industries licensed the Harrier to the McDonnell-Douglas company . Also this aircraft met the service within the Royal Spanish Navy in 1987. Several missions has been done by AV-8Bs including Gulf War, Operation Enduring Freedom, Operation Iraqi Freedom and Libyan Crisis.

Lockheed Martin F-35B

The STOVL variant of F-35 Thunderbolt which it's STOVL technology derived from Yak-141 VTOL system, which sold to the Lockheed Martin in 1992, which emphasizes the vector exhaust and a fan in the middle of the aircraft. Also the most wanted aircraft in action of this century. The F-35B is the short take-off and vertical landing (STOVL) variant of the aircraft. Similar in size to the A variant, the B sacrifices about a third of the A variant's fuel volume to accommodate the SDLF. This variant is limited to 7 g. Unlike other variants, the F-35B has no landing hook. The "STOVL/HOOK" control instead engages conversion between normal and vertical flight.The F-35B is capable of Mach 1.6 (1,976 km/h) and can perform vertical and/or short take-off and landing (V/STOL)

[jiangsuriverexcavator]

The Benefits of Amphibious Carrier [Infographic]

Amphibious carriers, also known as amphibious assault ships or helicopter carriers, are versatile naval vessels designed to support amphibious operations.

These ships have several benefits that make them valuable assets to a navy:

1. Amphibious Assault Capability:

Troop Deployment: Amphibious carriers can deploy and transport a large number of troops, typically including Marines and their equipment, to conduct amphibious assaults on shorelines.

Versatility: These ships can support a variety of amphibious operations, ranging from humanitarian assistance and disaster relief to full-scale military invasions.

2. Aircraft Operations:

Helicopter Operations: Amphibious carriers are equipped with helicopter decks and hangar facilities, enabling them to support helicopter-borne operations for troop transport, reconnaissance, and other missions.

STOVL Aircraft: Some amphibious carriers are designed to accommodate Short Takeoff Vertical Landing (STOVL) aircraft like the Harrier, F-35B, or other VTOL (Vertical Takeoff and Landing) aircraft, providing additional air support capabilities.

3. Command and Control Center:

Amphibious Ready Group (ARG): These carriers often serve as the flagship for an Amphibious Ready Group, providing command and control capabilities for the entire group of ships involved in an amphibious operation.

Command, Control, Communications, Computers, and Intelligence (C4I): Amphibious carriers are equipped with advanced communication and intelligence systems, enhancing situational awareness and coordination during operations.

4. Medical Facilities:

Hospital Facilities: Some amphibious carriers are equipped with medical facilities, enabling them to serve as floating hospitals during humanitarian missions or in the aftermath of natural disasters.

5. Logistical Support:

Transport of Vehicles and Equipment: Amphibious carriers have well-equipped vehicle decks for transporting tanks, armored vehicles, and other heavy equipment, supporting the logistics of amphibious operations.

Replenishment at Sea: These ships can participate in replenishment at sea, ensuring a sustained presence and operational capability for extended periods.

6. Flexible Response:

Rapid Deployment: Amphibious carriers provide the ability to rapidly respond to crises or conflicts, projecting power across coastlines and supporting a range of military and humanitarian missions.

7. Deterrence:

Strategic Presence: The presence of amphibious carriers in certain regions can serve as a deterrent, influencing the strategic calculus of potential adversaries.

8. Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR):

Versatile Deployment: Amphibious carriers are capable of supporting HADR missions, delivering aid and relief supplies quickly to disaster-stricken areas.

While amphibious carriers offer numerous advantages, it's important to note that their effectiveness depends on factors such as technology, maintenance, and the overall strategy and doctrine of the navy utilizing them.

Related:

What is Beyond Borders: Amphibious Carriers and the Future of Naval Warfare?

[airmanisr]

Lockheed Martin X-35B Lightning II 301 Udvar-Hazy Center 1-10-07 by Chris England Via Flickr: C/n PAV-1. The first X-35A, modified to include the lift-fan engine for testing of the STOVL concept. The first aircraft to achieve a short take-off, level supersonic flight, and vertical landing in a single flight.

[a-flying-fortress]

I am Once Again watching F-35 videos and I have a question: when the jet...... like turns or flips or rotates or does practically any maneuver, the way it moves is imo just so far into the uncanny valley that it almost weirds me out? as if it's not SUPPOSED to look like that? objectively it's so cool but like. what happen. why it do that. why plane move weird

>:)

to start, i'll give the opinion of someone i know that's afraid of planes: "they look too stiff and inorganic when in flight. very unlike the flap of a bird, bat, or insect. it's wrong."

without loading this with aerodynamics shit, what affects a combat aircraft's (read: fighter aircraft's) performance is its thrust-to-weight ratio and its wing loading. think of that second one as the aircraft's ability to generate lift - i'm generalizing here. a fighter jet's crazy maneuverability is allowed by its great lift and high thrust-to-weight (most modern fighters have a twr of 1:1 or greater). a fighter is built to generate a lot of lift with its rather stubby wings; sometimes even its entire airframe is made to facilitate the generation of more lift (see: su-57; flat and wide). its flight control surfaces such as flaps and horizontal stabilizers are also helpful here.

think of a civilian aircraft like your daily driver car; it can perform, but it is made more for utility unless modified or under the direction of a skilled driver. a fighter is like an f1 car or any sort of modified car, such as your neighborhood drift missile or a dragster, and is made for performance in whatever role it was built for. speed? air superiority? legitimate concerns.

another huge factor for some modern fighters is thrust vectoring. this is an aircraft or rocket's ability to direct the thrust coming from its engine(s). (the f-22 can move its thrust nozzles up and down by 20°.) this is how many achieve it. the f-35 does not make use of thrust vectoring, yet is still highly capable. she just has a lot of thrust. it's even an stovl (short take-off and vertical landing) aircraft. in fact, there is a variant that will perform the most excellent affront to god: vtol (vertical take-off and landing)! a great example of vtol is the harrier family of jets. helicopters are vtol aircraft.

as a last treat - and forgive my joke - but the ballerinas of the jet world tend to be the russian "flanker" family of jets, with the su-27 "flanker" being the primary example, but also including the su-30/su-35. the flankers are fucking MASSIVE and actually have somewhat low twr...but their wings are wide & enormous and their airframes are made for lift, which gives them their abilities. they are basically their own class: supermaneuverable jets. this ability is more for show than anything; modern jet combat is dominated by long-range missile engagement rather than guns and dogfights, so supermaneuverability is really only fun for an empty aircraft at an air show. it's bluster. supermaneuverability is greatly reduced by the presence of the combat loadout.

however, more and more jets are edging into these high-performance abilities. also, military jets often tend to be more capable than is publicly released.

[gosamiand-blog]

Harrier-hävittäjät lipuivat Länsisatamaan - Espanjan merivoimat Armada Española harjoittelee Suomessa | lentoposti.fi

[liamhen5]

Aircraft Carriers: Powerhouses of Modern Navies - A Deep Dive into Nimitz-Class, Queen Elizabeth-Class, and Global Carrier Fleets

Introduction to Aircraft Carriers

Aircraft carriers are monumental warships that serve as mobile airbases, enabling nations to project power far beyond their shores. They provide a platform for launching and recovering aircraft, which can perform a variety of roles, including air superiority, ground attack, anti-submarine warfare, and reconnaissance. These capabilities make aircraft carriers critical assets in modern naval strategy, allowing countries to exert influence over vast maritime regions, respond quickly to crises, and support global military operations.

Nimitz-Class Aircraft Carriers

The Nimitz-class carriers are a class of ten nuclear-powered aircraft carriers in service with the United States Navy. Named after Fleet Admiral Chester W. Nimitz, a key figure in the Pacific theater during World War II, these carriers have been the backbone of the U.S. Navy's carrier fleet since their introduction in the 1970s.

Design and Specifications: Nimitz-class carriers are among the largest warships in the world, each displacing around 100,000 tons. They measure approximately 1,092 feet in length and have a beam of 252 feet. Powered by two nuclear reactors, these carriers have a virtually unlimited range and can operate for over 20 years without refueling, providing sustained presence and flexibility.

Capabilities: The Nimitz-class carriers can accommodate about 90 aircraft, including F/A-18 Hornets, EA-18G Growlers, E-2C Hawkeyes, and MH-60R/S helicopters. The flight deck is equipped with four steam catapults, enabling rapid launch and recovery of aircraft. Advanced radar systems, electronic warfare capabilities, and missile defenses protect the carrier from various threats, ensuring it can operate effectively in contested environments.

Role and Deployment: Nimitz-class carriers have been deployed globally, participating in combat operations, humanitarian missions, and training exercises. They play a crucial role in projecting U.S. power, providing a credible deterrent, and supporting allies. Notable deployments include operations in the Persian Gulf, where they have supported combat missions in Iraq and Afghanistan, and disaster relief efforts in Southeast Asia.

Queen Elizabeth-Class Aircraft Carriers

The Queen Elizabeth-class carriers mark the Royal Navy's return to operating large aircraft carriers. This class comprises two ships: HMS Queen Elizabeth and HMS Prince of Wales. These carriers are the largest and most advanced warships ever built for the Royal Navy.

Design and Specifications: Each carrier displaces around 65,000 tons and measures 920 feet in length. They are conventionally powered, utilizing integrated electric propulsion systems. The design features twin islands, which improve command and control, and a ski-jump ramp for short take-off and vertical landing (STOVL) operations. The flight deck is capable of accommodating up to 40 aircraft.

Capabilities: The Queen Elizabeth-class carriers are designed primarily to operate the F-35B Lightning II, a fifth-generation multirole stealth fighter capable of STOVL operations. They can also deploy various helicopters, including the Merlin for anti-submarine warfare and airborne early warning, as well as Chinooks for troop transport. These carriers are equipped with advanced radar and self-defense systems, ensuring they can operate in high-threat environments.

Role and Deployment: These carriers enhance the UK's ability to project power globally. HMS Queen Elizabeth has already completed her maiden operational deployment, integrating with NATO allies and participating in multinational exercises in the Mediterranean, Indian Ocean, and the Pacific. The Queen Elizabeth-class carriers are expected to be central to the UK's defense strategy, providing rapid response capabilities and supporting international security efforts.

Aircraft Carriers by Country

Aircraft carriers are a potent symbol of naval power, and several nations operate or are developing carriers to bolster their strategic capabilities.

United States: The U.S. Navy operates 11 aircraft carriers, including the Nimitz-class and the new Ford-class, which will eventually replace the older Nimitz-class ships. These carriers form the core of the U.S. Navy's blue-water capabilities, ensuring global reach and influence. The Ford-class carriers introduce advanced technologies, including electromagnetic catapults and improved nuclear reactors, enhancing operational efficiency and combat capability.

United Kingdom: The Royal Navy operates two Queen Elizabeth-class carriers, which restore its ability to conduct carrier strike operations. These carriers are pivotal to the UK's defense strategy, enabling rapid response to crises and supporting global security efforts. Their integration with F-35B aircraft and advanced support systems enhances their operational versatility and effectiveness.

France: The French Navy operates the Charles de Gaulle, a nuclear-powered aircraft carrier. Commissioned in 2001, it supports a range of operations, from air superiority to anti-submarine warfare. The Charles de Gaulle has been deployed in various missions, including combat operations in the Middle East and humanitarian relief efforts. France plans to develop a new-generation carrier to replace it by the late 2030s, ensuring continued carrier capability.

China: China has been rapidly expanding its carrier capabilities, with two carriers currently in service: Liaoning (a refitted Soviet-era carrier) and Shandong (an indigenous design). A third, more advanced carrier, the Type 003, is under construction. These carriers signify China's growing naval ambitions and its desire to project power in the Asia-Pacific region. They support China's strategy of securing its maritime interests and extending its influence.

India: The Indian Navy operates INS Vikramaditya, a modified Kiev-class carrier, and is building its first indigenous carrier, INS Vikrant. These carriers are crucial for India's strategic presence in the Indian Ocean and beyond. They enhance India's ability to project power, support regional stability, and respond to maritime threats.

Russia: Russia's carrier capability is currently limited to the Admiral Kuznetsov, a vessel that has faced numerous technical challenges and is undergoing a lengthy refit. While Russia has plans to develop new carriers, financial and technical hurdles have delayed progress. Despite these challenges, Russia continues to prioritize carrier development as part of its broader naval modernization efforts.

Other Countries: Several other nations, including Italy, Spain, and Japan, operate smaller carriers or amphibious assault ships capable of launching fixed-wing aircraft. These platforms enhance their regional capabilities and support international operations. For instance, Japan's Izumo-class ships are being modified to operate F-35B aircraft, reflecting a strategic shift towards increased carrier capability.

Conclusion

Aircraft carriers by country remain a central component of modern naval strategy, offering unmatched versatility and power projection. The Nimitz-class and Queen Elizabeth-class carriers exemplify the pinnacle of carrier design and capability, each serving their respective nations' strategic needs. As more countries seek to develop or expand their carrier capabilities, the global naval landscape continues to evolve, underscoring the enduring importance of these formidable vessels. Whether through deterrence, humanitarian aid, or combat operations, aircraft carriers will continue to shape the future of naval warfare.

[future-nevada]

The AV-8B Harrier II STOVL Action was a crucial weapon in the Gulf War.

[usafphantom2]

McDonnell Douglas (BAe) AV-8B Harrier II STOVL, Short Take-Off & Vertical Landing aircraft.

The Harrier II introduced a stronger structure, more powerful engine, a larger composite wing with additional hard points & an elevated cockpit.

@AirrecC via X

[militaryleak]

Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force Advances Aircraft Carrier Conversion with Successful "KAGA" Modification

The Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) successfully completed the first phase of modifications on the JS Kaga (DDH-184), marking a significant milestone in the conversion of the helicopter carrier into an aircraft carrier. The project, initiated in March 2022, aims to equip the vessel with the operational capabilities required for hosting F-35B aircraft. The completion of the initial modification work on March 29 signifies the JMSDF's commitment to bolstering its naval capabilities. Moving forward, the focus will remain on executing further necessary modifications on the "IZUMO" class destroyer to ensure seamless integration of the short take-off and vertical-landing (STOVL) F-35B aircraft. #military #defense #defence #militaryleak #japan #jmsdf

The Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) successfully completed the first phase of modifications on the JS Kaga (DDH-184), marking a significant milestone in the conversion of the helicopter carrier into an aircraft carrier. The project, initiated in March 2022, aims to equip the vessel with the operational capabilities required for hosting F-35B aircraft. The completion of the initial…

[misasmemorandum]

『幽玄F』　佐藤究

著者の名前は「きわむ」と読む。

『テスカトリポカ』ですごい作家さんだなと思ってるし、この作品は三島に挑んでいるとあったりして楽しみにしていた。図書館の本を借りたのだけどね。

登場人物の名前が三島の作品の登場人物（特に豊饒の海シリーズ）をなぞったもので、主人公は易永（やすなが）透。これは豊饒の海シリーズの最終作に出て来た、生まれ変わりかどうか分からない安永透をなぞったものだろう。だから、こっちの透が本当の転生者なのかも知れないと思わせられながら読んだ。この透の高校時代の友達は溝口。これは金閣寺。

透は両親の離婚にも全く動じない感情が薄い人間。高校時代にいじめっ子（？）にやられた仕返しに、飛びつき三角締めをするのだが、武術を習ったことなどないのだけど動画を見て何度も練習して習得する。このエピソードで透のやり通す能力というか執念というかを描いてるのだろう。透の祖父は真言宗の住職で、戦闘機に乗るために自衛隊に入りたいと言う透に「護国」とは何かを考えろと言う。この人がいなかったら、透は思想的バックボーンのなりただの飛びたい馬鹿になってたかも知れないな。

さて、前後するけど、透は空を飛ぶことに魅せられてる。空を描くのに空の青が絵の具にないのを溝口が発見するのだが、これは目の方に原因があるのかも知れないと透は思う。そして美術教師に尋ねてみると、それは心理補色ーー赤の残像で青緑（シアン）が見えることーーのせいかも知れないと言う。そして透は思う。

絵具に欠けていたのは、無限だった。空の色は、無の光とつながっていなければならなかった。（p６４） 空の青とは、すなわち死の補色だった。（p６６）

難関の試験をくぐり抜け（ここら辺の描写がないのがちょっと物足りなかったが）、無事自衛隊に入り戦闘機パイロットになる。しかも超優秀なパイロット。多国間共同訓練でタイに出張となり、一緒に行く上司の名前が松ヶ枝清文。ってことは、転生云々は無しってことなのか？と思いつつ読んだ。時代は2030年と未来になっている。次にはアメリカ、アリゾナに行く。蛇のエピソードが唐突にあって、なんだろうと思っていたら、透、音速で飛行中に「透明な蛇」を見る。これね、最近読んだコナン・ドイルの短編を思い出した。空は無限かも知れないけど、だからと言ってそこに何もないわけではないんだよと思った。

この松ヶ枝さんと以前よく組んでいたのが井沼勇。むむむ。やっぱ転生は無しなのか？だ

透、飛行中に超音速（時速1,225km）に入ると窒息感が出るようになり、戦闘機パイロットとしてややっていけなくなったので自衛隊をやめてタイ、バンコクで働く。井沼の紹介。

オルタナ右翼の日本人が日本刀を振り回して、透に三島を読んだことがあるかと尋ねる。テロを起こす日本人たちの名前はナラサキ・レン、タワラ・ヒサハル、キド・ケンスケ。今は調べるつもりはないけど、将来的に気になって調べるときのためにここに残しておく。

透、バングラデシュに渡る。アリゾナで知り合ったオーストラリアのパイロット（ラッセル・フレッチャー）がギャンブル中毒で借金をこさえて大事になり、最後も大事だった。

バングラデシュで透はニール・ニューランズというイギリス人に出会う。この人は元は兵器関連のエンジニア。最後に何がどうあってどうなるかはここには書かないけれど、第三部の題名にもなってるSTOVL, Short Take Off Vertial Landingはポイント。あと、ハクティビストと言う、ハッカーのアクティビストがいるんだって。

この作者さん、やっぱり勢いがあってどんどん読ませてくれる。この作品は主人公が感情の希薄なタイプなせいなのか何事にも淡々と対処するので物語的に起伏がないと言えないでもない。がこの冷静な性質がパイロットに向いていたのだろうし、ヴァーティゴやら体質も合っていたようで、超一流の戦闘機パイロットになれたんだ。だけど、空には何かがあって続けられなかった。所々もうちょっと説明が欲しいよなってとこがあったが、読んでるうちにまいいかって思わせてしまう内容ではあった。

祖父つながりで真言宗や上座部仏教の教えが少し出て来る。この辺りについては私はあまり深く読んでいない。深く読むべきだったのかなと少し反省してる。

三島のキャラの名前を使ってるのは、豊饒の海シリーズの人々は転生ではないと言いたいのか、透だけが違って、こっちの透がそうなんだと言いたいのか。こちらの透のクライマックス、超音速に入って

　目の前に無限の空がひろがっていた。うっすらと明るんでゆく青緑の世界に、ふと透は、その色が死の補色だったことを思いだした。血の赤と空の青緑（シアン）。 　地上から見上げた空の色が赤い血の残像なら、と透は思った。俺が見ているこの空は血そのものーー俺はいま、自分のからだを流れる血のなかを飛んでいるのかーー 　透はようやく夢から、人生という長い訓練から覚めたような気がした。 　そして夢から覚めたあとには、現実がやって来るはずだった。輝かしい現実が。 　太陽と空。 　雲一つない場所で、戦闘機とミサイルは、巨大な蛇がみずからの尾を嚥んで円環をかたちづくるようにように結びついた。（pp３０７ー３０８）

奔馬の飯沼勲の最後が思い出されたし、これってやっぱこっちの透が転生者ってことだろうなと思った。

良い作品でした。作者さんありがとう。

[asklordcaptaincastronova]

Headcanon + STOVL

I believe this is how Vultures/Valkyries/Vendettas/Sky Talons work