The US Air Force will create a prototype of a military aircraft with a mixed wing on the basis of JetZero
The U.S. Air Force engaged JetZero to build a mixed-wing prototype aircraft to demonstrate the capabilities of a technology that could lead to a new class of military transport aircraft.
The US Air Force estimates that transport aircraft consume 4.5 billion liters of jet fuel annually. In order to reduce costs, the Air Force, together with NASA and the Defense Innovation Office, is considering mixed-wing aircraft as a possible solution.
The mixed wing body reduces drag by at least 30% and therefore increases efficiency by transforming the fuselage into an aerodynamic profile that generates lift together with the wings. This reduces noise levels and allows for significant fuel savings of up to 50% and significantly increases payload space for passengers and cargo, while maintaining the ability to operate from existing airports.
The large interior space was seen as a negative for civilian passenger transportation due to the lack of windows, but military applications will focus more on air refueling, tanker refueling, and cargo transportation. As for the passengers, the military personnel are already used to flying in windowless cabins.
In addition, by placing the engines on top of the fuselage, efficiency can be increased, allowing the aircraft to operate from unpaved runways.
“Mixed-wing aircraft can significantly reduce fuel demand and increase global reach,” said Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall. “The rapid, efficient and long-range movement of forces and cargo is a critical capability for the implementation of the national security strategy.”
