BAC Super Lightning
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After the cancellation of the Tornado ADV, Britain needed a new high-speed fighter and interceptor to deal with the potential threat of Soviet bombers. The British Aircraft Corporation proposed the ECL (Enhanced Capability Lightning), which slowly evolved into the Super Lightning. The intakes were moved under the wing roots, which gave space for a larger, more capable radar. The wing efficiency was greatly improved, and the engines were changed. An improved version of Turbo-Union's RB199 engine was selected, with stunning results. The engines were more powerful, and took up less space, which left more room for fuel and avionics to give improved flight characteristics and electronic capabilities. The type was also upgraded with the capability to carry the AIM-120, AIM-9L and X, and Skyflash. The ventral gun pack was removed, and the guns moved to the wing-roots to increase range and speed. The Super Lightning entered service in 1985 and has since fought in several conflicts including the Gulf War, Operation Allied Force and the closing stages of the Cold War. During Operation Desert Storm, one Super Lightning shot down two Iraqi MiG-21s in a single sortie, both with the long, range Skyflash missile. The aircraft is expected to remain in service into the next decade, supplemented by the Eurofighter Typhoon and F-35. AG1 deploys the landing chute.
Specifications
General Characteristics
- Predecessor BAC Super Lightning
- Created On Android
- Wingspan 28.4ft (8.7m)
- Length 40.6ft (12.4m)
- Height 10.2ft (3.1m)
- Empty Weight N/A
- Loaded Weight 27,044lbs (12,267kg)
Performance
- Power/Weight Ratio 2.492
- Wing Loading 115.7lbs/ft2 (564.8kg/m2)
- Wing Area 233.8ft2 (21.7m2)
- Drag Points 5020
Parts
- Number of Parts 114
- Control Surfaces 7
- Performance Cost 653