Boeing продемонстрировал об а своих Х-32 (JSF) (eng+img)

Boeing unveils both X-32 JSF demonstration aircraft

15 December 1999

Yesterday Boeing unveiled not one - but both - of its X-32 concept demonstrators for the Joint Strike Fighter program. Boeing surprised observers by introducing its X-32B model along with the X-32A. The X-32B was started three months after work began on the A-model. The company will use both aircraft to demonstrate certain requirements for the operational JSF.

http://defence-data.com/storypic/boeingjsfunveil.jpg [not image]

X-32A left X-32B right
Boeing credited its team of employees, suppliers and customer officials - which it calls the "JSF One Team" - for their success in keeping the X-32s on track for first flight next spring and summer, respectively. One Team members also were commended for their financial and technical performance throughout the Boeing JSF program.

Boeing implemented a number of "lean" concepts, including advanced 3-D solid modeling and minimal tooling, to design and build the X-32s in less the time and at less cost than comparable aircraft.


http://defence-data.com/storypic/boeingjsfunveil1.jpg [not image]
X-32A left X-32B right
"We have made lean design and manufacturing a reality on the JSF program," said Frank Statkus, Boeing vice president and JSF general manager. "Our One Team members have used innovation and dedication to demonstrate the benefits of being lean. Seeing is believing, and our customer has seen what we can do."

Col. Michael Poore, Joint Program Office X-32 program manager, said." The program has validated affordability, and he commended the JSF One Team for its commitment and tenacity. Today the X-32 concept demonstrator has taken an important first step toward proving that the job can be done," he said.


http://defence-data.com/storypic/boeingjsfunveil2.jpg [not image]
X-32A left X-32B right
The X-32 concept demonstrators will meet the JSF program's three concept-demonstration objectives:


To demonstrate commonality across the variants, including design/build processes

To demonstrate the Boeing direct-lift propulsion concept for short takeoff/vertical landing (STOVL) hover and transition; and

To demonstrate low-speed carrier approach flying qualities.
Specifically, the X-32A will demonstrate conventional takeoff and landing for the U.S. Air Force and carrier approach flying qualities for the U.S. Navy. The X-32B will demonstrate STOVL requirements for the U.S. Marine Corps and the UK Royal Air Force and Royal Navy.

Boeing is competing with Lockheed martin to build the JSF under a four-year U.S. Air Force, Navy and Marine Corps concept demonstration contract, while also defining the design for the operational JSF. A competition winner is scheduled to be selected in 2001.

Defence Systems Daily
REF XQQAS XQQEE XQQAR

А в чем разница между A и B вариантами?

Specifically, the X-32A will demonstrate conventional takeoff and landing for the U.S. Air Force and carrier approach flying qualities for the U.S. Navy. The X-32B will demonstrate STOVL requirements for the U.S. Marine Corps and the UK Royal Air Force and Royal Navy.
То есть, в чем еще разница, акромя ентого?

Это основные отличия.
Кому интересно, может порыться здесь:
JSF Boeing

JSF Lockheed Martin

Оба на Airforce technology