Submitted by Hypx t3_10pr4iv in Futurology
Beardedbreeder t1_j6n14k2 wrote
Reply to comment by SuckmyBlunt545 in DARPA wants aircraft that can maneuver with a radically different method by Hypx
They actually incorporate similar logic to this technology on the F-35, B-2, F-22, and B-21 raider, except it's for stealth purposes.
They use a radar absorbent/scattering tape that has different levels of conductivity along any bay door edges and on certain areas of the wings, except in this case, they're using current to change the scattering of radar waves as radar waves will scatter in different directions over different levels of conductivity resulting in multiple small radar waves scattering in many directions instead of a large return signal back to the source
here is a good video about the f35 and its capabilities that mentions use of the scattering tape
SuckmyBlunt545 t1_j6nitit wrote
That is not what the article tech pertains to tho
Beardedbreeder t1_j6nrsts wrote
I know. It's about using electrical charge to manipulate the airflow around a plane as opposed to using mechanical in flight adjustments of the stabilizing components and appears to imply that you could be able to do away with the stabilizing components all together making flying wing style fighter jets possible perhaps.
I was just pointing out that the same principles of manipulating charge were present in stealth aircraft technology for a different reason, is all.
SuckmyBlunt545 t1_j6nso7y wrote
Alright cheers :) ma bad!
scooby_doo_shaggy t1_j6op7z4 wrote
Wait does that mean they can use the scattering tape to actively change it's RCS/shape in real time?
Beardedbreeder t1_j6oyrvr wrote
From what I understand, they use it around weapons bays and other openings as well as serated openings together to scatter waves when they are otherwise in a vulnerable position by having a larger and non stealthy profile while they are open, so it's not so much actively changing the radio cross section but it's drawing the radio wave along the tape and causing it to dissipate in small bursts at different electrical charges as opposed to being one unified return wave, while the serrations. I imagine instead of looking like a long object, maybe the return signal appears more that of some birds, perhaps.
If you look at the f35, you'll see the light gray patterns; that's all radar scattering tape cuz it doubles in benefit being easier to maintain than regularly repainting a plane that has supersonic capabilities.
Viewing a single comment thread. View all comments