General Dynamics F-16XL

General Dynamics F-16XL. . , In February 1980, General Dynamics made a proposal for an F-16 with a radically-modified wing shape. The project was known as SCAMP (Supersonic Cruise and Maneuvering Program). The delta wing was to be of a cranked-arrow shape with a total surface of 633 sq. ft. (more than double the area of the standard F-16 wing). , The research objectives included exploring innovative wing planform, and camber shapes to provide efficient supersonic cruise performance while providing fighter-like transonic and supersonic turn agility. The design was intended to offer low drag at high subsonic or supersonic speeds without compromising low-speed maneuverability., The F-16XL is a radically different version of the standard F-16. The most obvious design change is the "cranked-arrow" double delta wing. The aircraft is also more than four feet longer than the production F-16A. The XL was intended as a multi-role strike aircraft competing against the F-15E Strike Eagle., Two F-16XL's were built. The No. 1 aircraft (s/n 75-0749) was a single-seat version while No. 2 (s/n 75-0747) was a two-seat version. The aircraft were flight tested from mid-1982 through 1985 before being put into storage. The No. 1 aircraft was pulled from storage in 1989 and modified for test work with NASA for studies on supersonic laminar flow and sonic-boom research (in conjunction with an SR-71). The second aircraft was returned to service at the Dryden Flight Research Center in 1992 and took over the supersonic laminar flow project from aircraft No. 1. , The F-16XL never entered production, and only the two prototypes were built. Both aircraft are currently located on Edwards AFB with aircraft number one (s/n 75-0749) on display at the Air Force Flight Test Museum and aircraft number two (s/n 75-0747) awaiting shipment to the National Museum of the United States Air Force. , On loan from the National Museum of the United States Air Force.