A Technique for Determining the Radius of Action for a Tactical Fighter Aircraft

Abstract : A computer program using an iterative technique was developed for determining the radius of action of F-4E and A7-D aircraft with any configuration of external stores. The program used performamce data from the aircraft flight manuals to calculate fuel and distance required to achieve military power climbs and optimum cruise fuel consumption. Required inputs to the program include the initial amount of fuel onboard and aircraft gross weight, the cruise and loiter altitudes, and the outbound and returning drag indicies due to aerodynamic drag of the external stores. Optional inputs that provide increased accuracy include fuel for engine start and taxi, and fuel and distance for takeoff and descent. The program calculates sequential increments of the outbound cruise portion of the mission profile until the fuel reserve desired at the end of mission (return to home base) is obtained; thus the radius of action is determined.