Thrust Vectoring J-10

[skyrover]

A few highlights from Zuhai 2018 showcasing a thrust vectoring J-10 performing "Pugachev's Cobra", "J-turn" and "Falling Leaf"

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DRj6q6dGDus

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QOCmLhB44Og

[IanH755]

I'm not a fighter pilot but have aviation knowledge so, while I get that this type of extreme Alpha manoeuvre has a "hit the brakes and he'll fly right by" type effect, do these energy draining manoeuvres actually have a place outside of air displays and would they be used during ACM, even if it was just a 1 on 1, rather than with wingmen as would be normal?

I know the Harrier had VIFF'ing but that wasn't just used as a horizontal "speed brake" effect as the nozzles could be lowered to keep tailplane authority (and therefore maintain a turn rate) even at sub 100kts (think Sharky Ward mentioned around 74kts?).

[skyrover]

Limited value in any long range missile sling-fest

Airshow maneuvers aside, thrust vectoring can provide an edge in close range combat.

The question is, just what are the chances of this happening anymore.

[Simpo Two]

skyrover said:

...can provide an edge in close range combat.

The question is, just what are the chances of this happening anymore.

100 years ago today they were saying the same thing...

[skyrover]

Simpo Two said:

skyrover said:

...can provide an edge in close range combat.

The question is, just what are the chances of this happening anymore.

100 years ago today they were saying the same thing...

Very true... although stealth and drone technology are going to play a significant factor today,

[Mave]

The problem with using thrust vectoring for high g manoeuvring, is that you end up adding a lot of weight and complexity that you don't need very often, if ever.