What is the difference between the Hornet and the super Hornet?

The Super Hornet is largely a new aircraft at about 20\% larger, 7,000 lb (3,200 kg) heavier empty weight, and 15,000 lb (6,800 kg) heavier maximum weight than the original Hornet. The Super Hornet carries 33\% more internal fuel, increasing mission range by 41\% and endurance by 50\% over the “Legacy” Hornet.

Why does turn radius increase with speed?

When an airplane banks in level flight, it produces a force analogous to the twirling weight on a string — any mass moving in an arc generates a centrifugal force that pushes the weight outward. The higher the tangential velocity is, the greater the centripetal force generated, increasing the radius of the arc.

What are two major factors that affect the radius of a turn?

Radius of Turn:

• The radius of turn varies with changes in either speed or bank [Figure 2]
• Speed & Radius of Turn:
• Bank Angle & Radius of Turn:
• Therefore, intercepting a course at a higher speed requires more distance, and therefore, requires a longer lead.

What is the instantaneous turn rate of an F-15?

An F-15 has 18 degrees per second under those same conditions and that was exceptional when the F-15 was new. So summing up, the instantaneous turn rate is the maximum pitch-up rate at any cost to speed and altitude. The maximum sustained turn rate is the maximum pitch-up rate the aircraft can sustain without losing altitude.

How important was the turn rate of a fighter aircraft?

You are correct, the turn rate of a fighter was extremely important. It is well known that the relatively high wing loading of the F-4 gave it some difficulties against tighter-turning MiG series aircraft. This high wing loading caused the F-4 to have a very wide turn radius that a MiG could easily turn inside of and attack the F-4.

Why does the F-22 have such a high turn rate?

Thrust vectoring has little effect on sustained turn rates but having lots of thrust does help enormously. With two engines developing more than 35,000lbs of thrust each and excellent aerodynamics the F-22 has a tremendous sustained turn rate. The Su-35 is very similar in performance even though it has less thrust and worse aerodynamic qualities.

How would an F-4 jet defend against a MiG-21?

Theoretically and depending upon gross weight, the F-4 could stay on the MiG-21’s tail in a turn, matching him in turn rate all day long. Or by using its high instantaneous turn rate, pull up and point at the defender for a quick shot.