Flight Testing and Simulation of an F-15 Airplane Using Throttles for Flight Control

Flight tests and simulation studies using the throttles of an F-15 airplane for emergency flight control have been conducted at the NASA Dryden Flight Research Facility. The airplane and the simulation are capable of extended up-and-away flight, using only throttles for flightpath control. Initial simulation results showed that runway landings using manual throttles only control were difficult, but possible with practice. Manual approaches flown in the airplane were much more difficult, indicating a significant discrepancy between flight and simulation. Analysis of flight data and development of improved simulation models that resolve the discrepancy are discussed. An augmented throttles-only control system that controls bank angle and flightpath with appropriate feedback parameters has also been developed, evaluated in simulations, and is planned for flight in the F-15.