YF-16CCV: F-16 Fighting Falcon Variant

A characteristic feature of the YF-16CCV (the aircraft with the configuration defined by the control system) was two additional inclined front rudders under the air intake.

The aircraft was used for “independent” tests on maneuverability.

Here the term “independence” meant the ability to maneuver only in one plane, for example, to turn without entering the turn.

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 aircraft was made based on the standard YF-16 and flew in this configuration from March 16, 1976 to July 31, 1977, making 87 flights.

General Dynamics F-16XL Fighting Falcon In Action