Birth of sweepback: Related research at luftfahrtforschungsaristalt - Germany

Abstract

An extended historical review is given about German World War II scientific and industrial research on the beneficial effects of wing sweep on aircraft design by reducing transonic drag rise. The specific role of the former Luftfahrtforschungsanstalt (LFA), which was located in Braunschweig-Voelkenrode, is emphasized. Reference is given to LFA's partner research organization Aerodynamische Versuchsanstalt in Goettingen, the scientific birthplace of modern aerodynamics. Wind-tunnel facilities at LFA, which were taken out of existence after World War II, are illustrated. Advanced missile research and aircraft support projects at LFA are illuminated. Further, the postwar technical know-how transfer and its implementation to U.S. and other international aircraft projects is highlighted together with contributions of some former German researchers to the advances of aeronautics.