An Overview of JSF STOVL Performance and Basing Interface Analyses

This paper provides a general overview of the three principal short takeoff vertical landing (STOVL) mode performance computer models used in support of Joint Strike Fighter Program performance analyses. These are the Vertical Landing Performance Code(VLPC) for vertical landing and waveoff maneuver performance, the flat deck short takeoff (STO) code and the ski jump takeoff code. In addition, the paper provides overviews of the external environment and surface erosion subject areas. The paper is intended to provide a general illustration of the linkage between the test data that supports these analyses, and the resulting STOVL mode performance and ship/austere base suitability. Included is a simple analysis of the surface erosion characteristics of a generic jet in the pressure and temperature class typical of a JSF STOVL variant. To avoid compromise of proprietary information, the discussion is not focused on any one or more of the specific JSF STOVL candidate aircraft.