I recently came across this video of the prototype Russian KB SAT SR-10 forward-swept-wing training aircraft. It shows the plane making a series of touch-and-go landings and takeoffs. The smoke trail from the 1960's-vintage turbojet engine fitted to the prototype is clearly visible; production aircraft (if it reaches that stage) are expected to be fitted with a more modern, more economical turbofan engine.
What's particularly interesting is that this is a private venture aircraft, not sponsored by the Russian government. It's intended as an ab initio trainer, taking student pilots from their first flight through mid-level aerobatic training, before they progress to the Yakovlev Yak-130 advanced transonic training aircraft (closely related to Aermacchi Alenia's M-346 Master) for operational conversion. The SR-10 was apparently defeated in the competition to supply the Russian Air Force's basic training aircraft by the turboprop Yakovlev Yak-152, but the former aircraft's development is being continued as a private venture in the hope of attracting customers.
The SR-10's forward-swept wing is certainly unusual. It appears to be a further development of the experimental forward-swept wing of the Soviet-era Sukhoi Su-47. I note that it's positioned fairly far aft on the fuselage, with a leading edge extension reaching forward to almost beneath the dual cockpit. I've no idea what that means for its handling, but other videos on YouTube show the aircraft performing most standard maneuvers.
The SR-10 is the smallest and lightest jet training aircraft I can remember seeing. I look forward to observing its progress.
Peter
Forward-swept wings generally offer greater maneuverability at the expense of stability (to the point that fly-by-wire is pretty much essential to keep them in the air). Good for aerobatics or fighter aircraft, not so sure about a trainer.
ReplyDeleteAlso, they require higher strength in the wing structure.
Agree with scipio! The forward swept design is inherently unstable, especially in the pitch regime!
ReplyDeleteI thought they were an answer to tip stalling.....?
ReplyDeleteI'll take 2. What's the MSRP?
ReplyDelete