Modern aircraft rely on flight control surfaces to affect their path through the air and this arrangement is typically a mix of linkages, mechanisms and digital systems. Attempting to revolutionize the field is a joint-development between British defence powerhouse BAe Systems and the University of Manchester who are working on the unmanned "Magma" air vehicle technology demonstrator. Development of the aircraft has been ongoing since about 2002.
The product is being used to collect data on the "blown-air" flight control concept in which engine bleed is harnessed to affect wing lifting properties (the supersonic-rated air is blown through the trailing edge control surfaces). It is hoped that the advancement may replace more complex control surface arrangements currently dictating schemes in modern combat (and civilian) aircraft - perhaps someday eliminating the need for any control surfaces whatsoever. Furthermore, the aircraft's thrust output is managed through a "fluidic" vector thrust control system.
In its current state, Magma exhibits a near-flying-wing planform with a general overall shape akin to an arrowhead. The vehicle also relies on blended wing-body shaping for ultimate aerodynamic efficiency. Over the rear of the body is a pair of outward-canted vertical tail fins. In a future revision of the product, the vertical tailplanes will be removed to make the air vehicle a true flying wing design. A traditional wheeled tricycle undercarriage is used for ground-running.
Note: The above text is EXCLUSIVE to the site www.MilitaryFactory.com. It is the product of many hours of research and work made possible with the help of contributors, veterans, insiders, and topic specialists. If you happen upon this text anywhere else on the internet or in print, please let us know at MilitaryFactory AT gmail DOT com so that we may take appropriate action against the offender / offending site and continue to protect this original work.
April 2019 - The Magma UAV has demonstrated fluidic supersonic blown air controlling in-flight during a test run on April 11th, 2019.
Specifications
BAe Systems / University of Manchester - UK Manufacturer(s)
The "Military Factory" name and MilitaryFactory.com logo are registered ® U.S. trademarks protected by all applicable domestic and international intellectual property laws. All written content, illustrations, and photography are unique to this website (unless where indicated) and not for reuse/reproduction in any form. Material presented throughout this website is for historical and entertainment value only and should not to be construed as usable for hardware restoration, maintenance, or general operation. We do not sell any of the items showcased on this site. Please direct all other inquiries to militaryfactory AT gmail.com. No A.I. was used in the generation of this content; site is 100% curated by humans.
