Development of a Comprehensive Validated Flight Dynamic Model of the F-111C Aircraft

Simulation models are used in almost all phases of the design, development, testing and support of modern complex systems. In the aerospace industry flight dynamic models are also used to support aircraft flight tests and to reduce the flight test time needed to test and evaluate system characteristics. The creation and refinement of adequate flight dynamic models is an important investment in any aircraft programme. Results obtained are not only useful during the operational life of the aircraft but feed back into the design and development of future configurations. This paper outlines the steps followed in the development of a comprehensive aircraft model and these steps are illustrated with information from the F-IIIC Flight Dynamic Model development at the Aeronautical Research Laboratory (ARL). Initial model development was based on data and reports provided by the manufacturer. An extensive flight test programme was conducted to provide full-scale aerodynamic parameters at selected flight conditions and to validate the model behaviour. The initial development, flight test programme, validation and applications of the F-IIIC Flight Dynamic Model are described in this paper.