Analysis and Test of Composite Rotorcraft Structure Subject to Ballistic Events

Predictive analysis is performed on configurations representative of small-volume rotorcraft primary structure. Potential failure points are identified and the design is modified to withstand the incoming ballistic event. Live fire testing is then executed on multiple specimens to validate the analysis method developed in the previous study. Predictive strength analysis is then performed to determine potential residual strength. Finally, cyclic and static residual strength testing is performed on two specimens. The results demonstrate that small-volume aircraft structure can be designed with composite sandwich structures to mitigate ballistic events that are often catastrophic for traditional aircraft structures.