Hypersonic Phoneix Testbed

[RAP]

NASA concept for a hypersonic Phoenix missile testbed from 2007.

 

[Atomic Coyote]

Interesting that they were planning to use an F-15 for it, I suppose they figured it would be easier to add the launch hardware than getting their hands on an F-14. (I suppose you don't need to have the Phoenix work with the radar if you're using it as a test vehicle.)

 

[Scott Kenny]

Interesting that they were planning to use an F-15 for it, I suppose they figured it would be easier to add the launch hardware than getting their hands on an F-14. (I suppose you don't need to have the Phoenix work with the radar if you're using it as a test vehicle.)

NASA owns an F15B and employs the people who know how to fix and fly them.

And no, they don't need the AWG-9 radar when the Phoenix is just flying off autopilot programmed ahead of time.