Abstract: Trailing edge devices configured to carry out multiple functions, and associated methods of use and manufacture are disclosed. An external fluid flow body (e.g., an airfoil) configured in accordance with an embodiment of the invention includes a first portion and a second portion, at least a part of the second portion being positioned aft of the first portion, with the second portion being movable relative to the first portion between a neutral position, a plurality of upward positions, and a plurality of downward positions. A guide structure can be coupled between the first and second portions, and an actuator can be operatively coupled between the first and second portions to move the second portion relative to the first portion. In one embodiment, a flexible surface can track the motion of the second portion and can expose a gap at some positions.

Abstract: A modular approach to the manufacture of high performance military aircraft allows different aircraft to be manufactured at affordable cost and with high part number commonality. An aircraft so constructed includes a delta wing; a forebody section, including a cockpit, which is mounted to the front of the wing; and a propulsion system support frame mounted beneath the forebody section and the underside of the wing. The propulsion system is supported within this frame. The aircraft can also include an aftbody section mounted to the aft end of the wing, which includes a 2-D variable thrust vectoring nozzle and a pair of canted vertical tails. The forebody section includes a chin inlet below the cockpit. The wing is preferably constructed using thermoplastic welding.