D11 – X36

The X-36 technology demonstrator shows off its distinctive shape as the remotely piloted aircraft flies a research mission over the Southern California desert on October 30, 1997.

The McDonnell Douglas / Boeing X-36 Tailless Fighter Agility Research Aircraft was a stealthy subscale prototype jet designed to fly without the traditional tail assembly found on most aircraft. This configuration was designed to reduce weight, drag and radar cross section, and increase range, maneuverability and survivability.

The NASA/Boeing X-36 Tailless Fighter Agility Research Aircraft successfully completed a 31-flight research program at NASA Dryden Flight Research Center, Edwards, CA, in November 1997. The X-36 project team developed and demonstrated the tailless fighter design using advanced technologies to improve the maneuverability and survivability of possible future fighter aircraft. The X-36 program met or exceeded all project goals.

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  • D15 – X-29

    X-29 technology demonstrator aircraft as it lifts off from the runway at Edwards Air Force base on a 1989 test flight.

  • D07 – SOFIA – The Flying Infrared Observatory

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  • D13 – S-3 VIKING

    NASA Glenn’s S-3 Viking Aircraft flying over downtown Cleveland, Ohio.