Accession Number:

ADA021407

Title:

Performance and Handling Qualities Evaluation - AH-1G Helicopter with Low Reflective Infrared/Optical Paint

Descriptive Note:

Final rept. 27 Nov 1974-10 Apr 1975

Corporate Author:

ARMY AVIATION ENGINEERING FLIGHT ACTIVITY EDWARDS AFB CA

Personal Author(s):

• Winn, Albert L.
• Stewart, Robert L.
• Tavares, Edward J.
• Skinner, Gary L.

Report Date:

1975-08-01

Pagination or Media Count:

54.0

Abstract:

The performance and handling qualities of an AH-1G helicopter were evaluated in the basic paint configuration, with the fuselage and main and tail rotors painted with a low reflective infrared IRoptical paint FSN 8010-083- 6588, and in a modified IRoptical paint configuration in which the tail rotor blades and the main rotor leading edge were stripped of the IRoptical paint. Flight tests were conducted by the United States Army Aviation Engineering Flight Activity at Edwards Air Force Base, California, between 27 November 1974 and 10 April 1975. Twenty-five flights were flown for a total of 24.7 productive flight hours. Performance testing was limited to hover, level flight, and autorotational descent. Handling qualities were qualitatively evaluated throughout the conduct of the test program. Additionally, maneuvering stability was quantitatively evaluated in the IRoptical paint configuration and compared with results from previous reports.

Descriptors:

• *FLIGHT TESTING
• *HELICOPTERS
• *INFRARED COUNTERMEASURES
• *PAINTS
• HOVERING
• INFRARED SIGNATURES
• OPTICAL COATINGS
• ROTOR BLADES(ROTARY WINGS)
• WEIGHT

Subject Categories:

• Helicopters
• Coatings, Colorants and Finishes
• Infrared Detection and Detectors

Distribution Statement:

APPROVED FOR PUBLIC RELEASE