Canada's National Research Council (NRC) is using a unique water-tunnel testing method to investigate the high-angle-of-attack behaviour of the Boeing F/A-18. Testing involves the NRC-developed OPLEC orbital-platform rotary-balance system, which consists of a rotating open-ended cylinder with a sting mounted on the outer surface. This eliminates the need for a rotating transverse support arm, minimising aerodynamic interference. Results will be used to improve F/A-18 flight-simulator fidelity.
Source: Flight International
