SharkSkin: Microscopic Aerodynamic Riblets for Naval Aircraft Drag Reduction, Increased Combat Radius, and Mission Readiness

Naval tactical aircraft (TACAIR) such as the F/A-18 and F-35 are complex, legacy platforms that are projected to remain in service for several more decades. Despite their longevity, there's a recognized need to enhance their operational capabilities, particularly their range and combat radius. This imperative is clearly articulated in the Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) Navigation Plan (2022), which emphasizes the necessity for “...platforms with greater reach [which] enable naval forces to strike hostile targets while increasing our own survivability.” Traditionally, integrating new technologies like advanced propulsion systems or flight controls into existing platforms is incredibly complex and cost-prohibitive due to their widespread impact on numerous, if not all, aircraft systems. Similarly, significant advances in aerodynamic technologies are typically confined to the development of entirely new aircraft, as they generally demand alterations to the outer mold line (OML)—a modification rarely feasible for legacy platforms. This research effort proposes to address these challenges by exploring an unprecedented opportunity: improving the aerodynamic efficiency of existing Naval TACAIR through the application of passive technology. Crucially, this technology does not require power or active control during operation and can be seamlessly integrated with the aircraft's existing OML, without necessitating any structural changes to the platform. This approach offers a novel and potentially transformative pathway to enhance the operational reach and survivability of the Navy's enduring TACAIR fleet. Connected Alliances (CXAL) will 1) review and describe current state of riblet technology to extend combat radius of tactical aircraft, 2) using modeling and simulation to evaluate and quantify MicroTau’s Direct Contactless Microfabrication (DCM) riblet performance across Naval tactical aircraft (TACAIR) flight regimes, 3) determine the feasibility of integration, maintenance and sustainment for aircraft carrier operation and 4) develop a plan to validate riblet concept at component level in laboratory environment.  Total Dollar Amount for this Proposal $239,849.06 Base Year $139,871.62 Option $99,977.44 Technical and Business Assistance (TABA)- Base $0.00 TABA- Option $0.00