HISTORY BENEFITS NEXT-GENERATION FIGHTER DESIGN

Design features that enhance the ability of the pilot to exercise his inherent flying skills top the list of technical factors that decide air wars. This underscores the importance of designing for maximum pilot effectiveness. Reclined seatback angles, raised heel lines, and sidestick controllers enable today's pilots to maneuver effectively up to 9 gs. Many pilots believe that significantly higher pitch rates (nosepointing ability) are tactically more useful than higher g limits. This may require application of nonaerodynamic controls, such as thrust vectoring at some flight conditions. Basic aircraft, navigation, sensor, and weapon-system operation should not require the pilot to divert his attention from the scene outside the cockpit or to remove his hands from the stick and throttle. The technologies associated with voice command, helmet-mounted sights and displays, and artificial intelligence will be important elements of the next-generation cockpit.