Comparison of Aerodynamic Characteristics on Sukhoi SU-33-like and F-35 Lightning II-like Models using Water Tunnel Flow Visualization Technique

Various fighter aircraft models have been developed following the design philosophy that has been determined by the manufacturer. The development of fighter aircraft from various countries in the fourth to fifth generations is very rapid, such as in the Sukhoi SU-33 and F-35 Lightning II. Observation of the character of aerodynamics is crucial to determine the performance of the aircraft fighter. By observing the flow visualization that occurs, it will be able to analyze the aerodynamic aspect of the observed aircraft model. Water tunnel method has been widely used for aerodynamic analysis because it can produce flow visualization in detail. In this study carried out by visualization testing which has the aim to determine the shape of the flow in the Sukhoi SU-33-like and F-35 Lighting II-like models. This test is carried out using the GAMA water tunnel test facility to determine the aerodynamic flow and force that occurs in the aircraft model to been tested. The results showed that in the Sukhoi SU-33-like model had been stalled at AoA 50° with a Cl
_max
value of 1.45. Whereas in the F-35 Lightning II-like model there was a stall at AoA 40° with a Cl
_max
value of 1.65.