A Split Fan Concept for a Medium Speed V/STOL

A split fan V/STOL concept when designed for short takeoff and landing (STOL) can have a useful load comparable to a conventional takeoff and landing (CTOL) aircraft. The STOL capability includes a deck run of no more than 400 feet, while retaining an excellent vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) capability. This concept also offers a simple lightweight cross-duct multiengine coupling which is adaptable to either a twin or four engine configuration. The selection of number of engines will depend on the safety of flight requirements in the VTOL mode. An inherent advantage of the split flow concept is the efficient propulsion control system which employs cross duct coupling between engines. Finally, this simple compact thrust vectored split flow system has inherent features for configuring a low-observable signature aircraft.