The F-16 CCV concept entails “decoupling” the aircraft’s flight control surfaces so that they can operate independently. This approach enables unusual maneuvers such as being able to turn the airplane without banking it.

The AFTI F-16 built upon GD's experience with its YF-16 CCV program, and the AFTI F-16 even received the twin pivoting vertical ventral fins from the CCV aircraft, which were likewise installed under the air intake.

Aug 25, 2023 · The ability to maneuver in one plane without simultaneously moving in another was seen as offering novel tactical performance capabilities for a fighter. As explained by Lou …

The first YF-16 (#72-1567) was rebuilt in December 1975 to become the USAF Flight Dynamics Laboratory's Control Configured Vehicle (CCV). CCV aircraft have independent or "decoupled" flight control surfaces, which make it possible to maneuver in one plane without movement in another -- for example, turning without having to bank.

On Dec 26, 1978, General Dynamics was awarded a contract to convert the sixth FSD F-16A (#75-0750) into an AFTI aircraft. It capitalized on the experience gained with the F-16 CCV (Control Configured Vehicle) (#72-1567). The aircraft was handed over to the company in March 1980. F-16 AFTI in flight.

The AFTI F-16 featured ventral fins under the engine intake as with the CCV YF-16, plus a triple redundant digital FBW system (in contrast to the analog FBW system of the standard F-16), and a dorsal spine to house additional gear.

Jan 5, 2010 · 16 March 1976 General Dynamics test pilot David J. Thigpen is at the controls for the maiden flight of F-16/CCV, which is a modification of YF-16 No. 1. CCV aircraft have independent or decoupled flight control surfaces that make it possible to maneuver in one plane without movement in another.

Jun 30, 2018 · The YF-16CCV was the first aircraft capable of changing the heading and pitch angle without changing the flight path. The first step to maneuvering at large angles later worked on the F-16 AFTI and Rockwell X-31 aircraft.

The first YF-16 prototype was converted with two triangular fins below the air intake. This version is known as the YF-16 CCV, for Control Configured Vehicle). It is distin­guished from the later F-16 AFTI/CCV by the smaller diameter nose and smaller ventral fins.

Dec 25, 2019 · The General Dynamics F-16 Fighting Falcon is a single-engine supersonic multirole fighter aircraft originally developed by General Dynamics (its aviation unit is now part of Lockheed Martin) for the United States Air Force (USAF).