Numerical Investigation of a UAV Launch from the Cargo Hold of a Military Transport Aircraft

Abstract

The launch of a fixed-wing unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) out of the cargo hold of a flying transport aircraft is investigated numerically in this study. In order to capture the dynamic motion of the UAV during the launch, a numerical tool chain is established in which the DLR TAU-Code flow solver is coupled with a flight mechanic tool. A parameter study was conducted to investigate how the launch speed and the position and orientation of the UAV with respect to the loading platform of the transport aircraft affect the trajectory and the aerodynamic behavior of the UAV. Furthermore, the influence of the angle of attack of the transport aircraft on the trajectory and pitch angle of the UAV is analyzed. This information will help to design a launch mechanism which ensures a safe separation and an aerodynamically stable flight of the UAV after launch.