Fighter Aircraft

Fighter aircraft are high-performance military planes designed for air-to-air combat. They are characterized by their speed, maneuverability, and advanced weapon systems. Examples include the F-16 Fighting Falcon and the F-35 Lightning II. The industry is supported by air data test and calibration equipment, radar cross section equipment, mass properties instruments, temperature measurement instruments, torque and force measurement instruments, and heat flux sensors and thermocouples to ensure accurate performance measurements, weight distribution, temperature control, and structural integrity.

Physical Properties Systems

Mass properties instruments are used to measure and assess the weight distribution, center of gravity, and moments of inertia of fighter jets. This information is crucial for ensuring the stability, maneuverability, and overall performance of the aircraft. Mass properties instruments help in optimizing the aircraft’s design, balance, and control characteristics.

Airframe: fuselage, wings, tail, control surfaces
Airbourne Cameras and Sensors
Engines: main engines, auxiliary power unit (APU), fan blades, turbine blades
Fuel System: fuel tanks, piping, fuel management systems
Avionics and Electronics: communication equipment, navigation systems, radar systems
Weapons and Stores: missiles, bombs, external fuel tanks
Landing Gear: main landing gear and nose landing gear

InfiniScan F-35 backpack device, lightweight and portable for advanced scanning applications

RF Systems

Radar cross section (RCS) testing is used to measure and analyze the radar signature of fighter aircraft. It helps in evaluating and reducing the aircraft’s detectability by radar systems, making it more stealthy and reducing the chances of detection by enemy radar. RCS testing allows engineers to optimize the design and materials used in the aircraft to minimize its radar signature.

Airframe
External Stores: weapons, fuel tanks, additional equipment mounted on the fighter jet’s external hardpoints
Antennas: communication antennas, radar antennas, and electronic warfare antennas
Canopy and Cockpit
Wing and Control Surfaces
Internal Structure: support frames, bulkheads, equipment installations

person working with air data calibration equipment in an airline hangar

Avionics Systems

Air data test and calibration systems are used to test and calibrate the pitot tubes and static ports on the aircraft. These instruments measure the pressure and temperature of the air around the aircraft to provide accurate airspeed, altitude, and other related data. They are also used as Airspeed Indicators, to test and calibrate the airspeed indicators on the aircraft, they test and calibrate the altimeters on the aircraft. These instruments are also used as Vertical Speed Indicators to test and calibrate the vertical speed indicators on the aircraft, they measure the rate of change of altitude and provide a visual indication of the aircraft’s vertical speed, and are used to test and calibrate the angle of attack sensors on the aircraft.

Static Ports: measure the static pressure of the surrounding air
Pitot Tubes: measure the aircraft’s airspeed

Igniter Circuit Testers

Specific systems and components requiring igniter circuit testers may vary depending on the model and its engine configuration. Igniter circuit testers are used as diagnostic tools to test the circuits and functionality of squibs throughout airframes. Here are some examples:

Fire Suppression Systems

Pressure and Temperature Systems

Temperature, torque, and force measurement instruments are used in fighter jets to monitor and evaluate various parameters during operation. They help detect and address any abnormal temperature levels, torque values, or force exertion that may indicate mechanical or operational issues. Accurate measurements from these instruments help maintain optimal performance and safety.

Engine
Avionics Systems
Flight Instruments
Hydraulic Systems
Cable Tensiometer Testing
Aircraft Tire Pressure Testing
Tachometer Calibration
Maintenance Tools and Equipment

2 green Model 3646 Portable Instrument Cleaning System

Instrument Cleaning and Contamination Prevention

By utilizing instrument cleaning and contamination prevention instruments, operators and maintenance personnel can ensure the cleanliness, functionality, and reliability of various products and systems on a rotary-wing aircraft. Proper cleaning and contamination prevention help maintain optimal performance, extend the lifespan of components, and reduce the risk of system failures or malfunctions due to contaminants.

Avionics and Instrumentation: cockpit displays, control panels
Optical Systems: cameras, sensors, lenses
Sensors and Probes: airspeed sensors, temperature sensors, angle of attack sensors, pressure sensors.
Filters and Ventilation Systems
Cabin Air systems
Pilot oxygen and life support equipment

11644-01 Base Gas Temperature Transducer, Type S, featuring a compact and efficient design

Thermal Systems

Heat flux sensors, infrared radiometers, and thermocouples are used in fighter jets to monitor and assess thermal conditions. They help detect and manage issues such as excessive heat generation, thermal stress, or cooling inefficiencies. By providing real-time temperature data and heat transfer measurements, these sensors contribute to the safe and effective operation of the fighter jet.

Engine
Exhaust System
Thermal Protection System
Avionics and Electronics
Weapon Systems
Aircraft Structure
Environmental Control System