Rockwell/Messerschmitt-B-B X-31

First Flight: October 11, 1990
Mission: Test bed for thrust vectoring and advanced maneuverability fighter aircraft.
Major Accomplishments: The X-31 program demonstrates the use of  redirected engine exhaust (thrust vectoring) and coupled with advanced flight control systems. The X-31 is able to maintain controlled flight through high angles of attack.

Power Source: 1 General Electric P404-GE-400 turbofan engine, producing 16,000 pounds (with afterburner)
Wing Span: 22.8'
Length: 43.3'
Maximum Achieved Speed: Mach 1.28
Maximum Achieved Altitude: 40,000 ft

Additional Information: The X-31 was designed to break the "stall barrier", allowing it to flight at angles of attack which would typically cause an aircraft to stall resulting loss of control. The X-31 employs thrust vectoring paddles which are placed in the jet exhaust, allowing the aircrafts aerodynamic surfaces to maintain control at very high angles. The X-31 also utilizes computer controlled canard wings to help keep the aircraft stable at high attack angles. The technology of the X-31 will be employed in next-generation N.A.T.O. fighter aircraft.