The Performance of a Conceptual Vertical Attitude Takeoff and Landing Fighter Aircraft

The performance of a conceptual 18,000-lb 8200-kg vertical attitude takeoff and landing fighter aircraft is presented. The single-seat aircraft is designed around a single F100 turbofan. Contemporary avionics and materials technologies are assumed. The design payload includes an M61 cannon with ammunition and four Dogfight missiles. No compromises for mission capabilities, other than air combat, exist in the design. The fighter has a combat radius of 308 nm 570 km with a maximum level speed in excess of Mach 2 at altitude. Range, turning, and specific excess energy performance are presented. Weight and range performance penalties for the inclusion of conventional landing gear, a rotating cockpit, and a multi-engine design are summarized.