Abstract:
Wing is the most important part to realize the aerodynamic performance of fighters. And the airfoil is the basic element of wings. Innovation and breakthrough are absolutely necessary in the airfoil design of next-generation fighters. Based on the review of aerodynamic characteristics of fighters from the first to the fourth generation, this paper summarizes the design characteristics and development trend of airfoils for fighters. According to the requirement development of the next-generation fighters, the airfoil design has gradually developed from focusing only on single aerodynamic requirement to multi-objective and multi-disciplinary design. Broadband stealth, long range, and high maneuver are required by future fighter aircrafts which are very likely to adopt the ultra-flat tailless aerodynamic layout. This paper analyzes the design requirements of a new generation airfoil from several aspects. The future development of airfoils will pay more attention to the comprehensive design optimization of aerodynamic, stealth, control, structure, intelligent material, and morphing technology, so as to ensure that the fighter platform has better flight quality and combat performance to meet the development requirements of the next-generation fighter aircrafts.