Control Technologies for Tailless Configurations in Sixth-Generation Fighter Aircraft

Abstract

Since the introduction of the Messerschmitt Me-262, developed by Germany in the early 1940s, fighter aircraft have undergone rapid advancements. Today, fifth-generation fighter aircraft, such as the F-22 Raptor, F-35 Lightning II, and Su-57 Felon, are operational in some nations, while major military powers, including the United States, Europe, and Russia, are actively pursuing the development of next-generation fighters. These aircraft are anticipated to feature extreme stealth configurations, such as tailless designs without vertical and horizontal stabilizers, alongside advanced technologies, including artificial intelligence, network-centric warfare, advanced sensor fusion, cloud-based data sharing, electronic warfare, high-performance propulsion systems, and directed energy weapon. With these advancements, next-generation fighters are expected to operate effectively in anti-access/area-denial environments, overcoming sophisticated integrated air defense system to achieve superior survivability and lethality on future battlefields. This paper reviews key control technologies for tailless aircraft, a critical design feature for achieving extreme stealth capabilities in future fighter platforms. The findings are expected to benefit a wide audience, from aerospace engineering students to industry researchers, by providing insights into the development goals of next-generation combat aircraft and the control technologies essential for tailless aircraft.