As fighter jets are required to fly at really high altitudes and through different climatic zones, there are chances of ice settling on the body of the aircraft. This could have an adverse impact on the performances of the aircraft, and could even jeopardize the mission or the endanger life of the pilot.
Keeping in mind the security reasons, de-icing of an aircraft is an extremely crucial aspect, as the ice and snow can increase the weight of the airplane and thus have a negative impact on its aerodynamics.
So far, ice detection and quantification on aircraft, especially smaller in stature have not been solved in a manner that is expected. However, Tecmash Group may have moved closer to finding an ideal solution for de-icing on modern fighter jets.
“The enterprise’s specialists have implemented the customer’s technical specifications in full, providing for the ice sensor’s reliable operation upon sharply changing angles of attack. This was achieved by developing extra software and altering the item’s design.
The sensor does not only signal the beginning of icing but also predicts the situation, protecting the fighter from unfavorable weather factors,” said Rostec’s armament cluster.
According to Rostec, Russia’s Research Institute of Electronic Instruments has produced what could be the first batch of ice detectors, with the new sensors also being able to measure the thickness of the ice.
“The Research Institute of Electronic Instruments has already rolled out the first batch of ice detectors. The new sensor has its control unit’s weight reduced by 30% while it is outfitted with an infrared port for data exchange,
“The sensor for military aircraft will signal not only the build-up of ice but will also measure its thickness and predict icing with the help of artificial intelligence elements,” said Rostec.
