BAE Systems puts Tempest virtual design through its paces
Engineers at BAE Systems have been using the digital environment to design, test and fly conceptual models for the Tempest next-generation combat air system.
Using digital twin technologies, conceptual shapes for the UK aircraft have been virtually designed and tested more quickly than ever before, the company claimed on 24 August.
Following extensive digital testing of the concepts and aerodynamic features, 3D printed scale models were put through their paces at the BAE Systems wind tunnel facility in Warton, Lancashire, under wind speeds of more than twice the speed of sound.
Data from the trials will be used to refine and shape the final design of Tempest, which is hoped to enter service by 2035.
The High Speed Wind Tunnel at Warton can consume 15 tonnes of air in 20 seconds when running at full power at subsonic, transonic and supersonic speeds.
As part of our promise to deliver comprehensive coverage to our Defence Insight and Premium News subscribers, our curated defence news content provides the latest industry updates, contract awards and programme milestones.
Related Programmes in Defence Insight
More from Air Warfare
-
Airbus to give 19 H135 training helicopters to Royal Canadian Air Force
The agreement includes H135 acquisition, support and services, support for the development of a ground-based training solution and advanced engineering support. Deliveries for the aircraft are expected to commence in the first half of 2026.
-
Avenger UAS controlled in flight using Link 16
The flight test formed part of a larger programme of work to provide mission autonomy software to integrate, data links and other advanced mission systems onto the Avenger UAS.
-
Embraer promotes C-390 Millennium as it signs for closer ties with Morocco
A Memorandum of Understanding was signed during the Marrakesh Air Show, with the C-390 Millennium positioned as the ideal future choice for the Moroccan Air Force.
-
Turkish Aerospace eyes European and North African customers as Hürjet goes supersonic
The trainer aircraft will initially seek to replace the Turkish Air Force’s T-38 trainer fleet, with deliveries scheduled for 2026, but TAI confirmed that ‘closer talks’ were underway with potential export customers.
-
More AMRAAMs approved for Denmark under $744 million deal
There has been a spike in demand for Raytheon’s Advanced Medium Range Air-to-Air Missiles (AMRAAMs), including a US$1.2 billion Pentagon order for 12 countries as well as US Navy and US Air Force. There have also been approvals this year for sales to Israel, Norway, Romania and Singapore.
-
Bulgaria’s first F-16 Block 70 takes flight
Bulgaria has ordered a total of 16 F-16 Block 70 fighters, which will be delivered in two batches. Deliveries for the first lot are anticipated to commence in 2025.