Time Period: Post-WW2
Country of Origin: United States
Type: Prototypes and Experimental (CDA)
Manufacturer: Lockheed Martin Aeronautics
Lockheed Martin X-35 Aircraft Overview
The Lockheed Martin X-35 was an experimental aircraft developed as part of the Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) program, a competition to select a next-generation multirole fighter for the United States military and its allies. The X-35 was a technology demonstrator that eventually evolved into the F-35 Lightning II, a highly advanced fifth-generation stealth fighter.
The X-35 was designed to fulfill the requirements of the JSF program, which aimed to develop a versatile and cost-effective fighter capable of conducting air-to-air combat, air-to-ground strikes, and reconnaissance missions. It incorporated advanced technologies and innovative features to meet these objectives.
The X-35 featured a low-observable, stealthy design, enabling it to operate undetected by enemy radar systems. It employed advanced sensors, avionics, and network-centric warfare capabilities to provide enhanced situational awareness and interoperability with other platforms.
One of the notable features of the X-35 was its propulsion system. It utilized a Pratt & Whitney F119 engine, which provided significant thrust and performance capabilities.
In 2001, the X-35 competed against the Boeing X-32 in a fly-off evaluation, with the X-35 emerging as the winner. Following the selection, the X-35 underwent further development and refinement, leading to the creation of three primary variants: the F-35A (conventional takeoff and landing), F-35B (short takeoff and vertical landing), and F-35C (carrier-based operations).
The F-35 Lightning II has become one of the most advanced and widely used fighter aircraft in the world. It incorporates stealth technology, advanced sensors, network-centric warfare capabilities, and a range of mission systems, making it a highly capable and versatile platform for modern air combat.
The X-35 program marked a significant milestone in the development of the F-35 Lightning II, showcasing the cutting-edge technologies and capabilities that make it a dominant force in modern military aviation.
Lockheed Martin X-35 Specifications
- Crew: 1
- Length: 50.5 ft (15.4 m)
- Wingspan: 33 ft (10 m)
- Height: 13.3 ft (4.1 m)
- Wing area: 450 sq ft (42 m2)
- Empty weight: 26,500 lb (12,020 kg)
- Max takeoff weight: 50,000 lb (22,680 kg)
- Fuel capacity: 15,000 lb (6,800 kg) internal
- Powerplant: 1 × Pratt & Whitney JSF119-PW-611 augmented turbofan, 25,000 lbf (110 kN) thrust dry, 40,000 lbf (180 kN) with afterburner.
Lockheed Martin X-35 Performance
- Maximum speed: Mach 1.5+ at altitude
- Range: 1,200 nmi (1,400 mi, 2,200 km) or more
- Combat range: 600 nmi (690 mi, 1,100 km)
- Service ceiling: 50,000 ft (15,000 m)
