The F-35B represents the pinnacle of aviation technology β a supersonic fighter jet capable of vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) while maintaining a low radar cross section. While this model wonβt break the sound barrier, it does replicate the F-35Bβs VTOL capability with impressive stability. This feature was unheard of in EDF jet models until recently, and is sure to wow everybody at the flying field.
This model is designed to be equipped with an autopilot running ArduPilot software for the stability and control necessary for fully functional VTOL flight.
This design is a mix of 3D printed and foamboard construction. The thrust vectoring nozzle, nose and upper fuselage, landing gear and electronics mounts, and other miscellaneous hardware are printed, while the wings, tail, and lower fuselage are foamboard. The digital download includes:
- STL 3D model files
- Simplify3D or .3mf manufacturing files
- Pre-generated gcode files
- Templates for foam parts
- ArduPilot firmware files with pre-configured parameters
- Custom RealFlight model and firmware
- Build guide and suggested hardware list
Flight video: https://youtu.be/ibVLm82UJ3c
ArduPilot setup guide: https://youtu.be/N-XBobzyU_8
RealFlight simulation tutorial: https://youtu.be/pPPse-ZRnFU
Specifications:
- Wingspan: 1000mm (39.4β)
- Length: 1465mm (57.7β)
- Wing Area: 37.3dm2 (4.01ft2)
- Print Weight: 1470g (3.25lb)
- Flying Weight: 5300g (11.7lb)
- Wing Loading: 142g/dm2 (46.6oz/ft2)
- Airfoil: KFm2 Step
What You'll Need:
- An FDM 3D printer with at least a 215mm x 215mm x 210mm build volume (210mm x 250mm x 210mm also works)
- A 0.4mm nozzle (recommended)
- A heated build plate (recommended)
- Less than 1kg of PLA
- Less than 1kg of LW-PLA
- 9mm Depron foam (or equivalent)
- Medium CA adhesive & accelerator
- Epoxy and/or hot glue
- Tools, hardware and electronics - see build guide for details
The 3BSM
The 3-bearing swivel module (3BSM) design that forms the VTOL propulsion system is INCLUDED with this product. Check out the 3BSM details in the resource section for information about what you'll need to complete it.
Resources
F-35B build guide: https://drive.google.com/file/d/18HeACTDXtE7sIhP-7DP87_zNF1Bn8wfo/view?usp=sharing
F-35B hardware pack: https://www.loftedaero.com/product-page/simple-f-35b-hardware-pack
3BSM build guide: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Aja_kRP4Q-k9Paf3NlsaxDm8wRYEtQNU/view?usp=sharing
3BSM assembly videos: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLlomzfbyrg0UGiUHqswWv-rojvH0zrbRK
3BSM hardware pack: https://www.loftedaero.com/product-page/3bsm-hardware-pack
3BSM electronics pack: https://www.loftedaero.com/product-page/3bsm-electronics-pack
Cautions
While this model is surprisingly easy to fly once built and configured, it's also incredibly complex. The mechanical design, autopilot, 3BSM, and software must all function in perfect harmony for each successful flight.
Due to the difficulty of packaging and documenting all that complexity, there are a few things to watch out for:
- The build guide may be missing a few details
- Some parts may have minor fitment issues
- Flight controller parameter tweaks may be necessary
- PIDs may require additional tuning
I'm confident that none of the above would prevent an experienced R/C modeler from successfully completing and flying this model. But otherwise, please don't hesitate to reach out if you notice something out of place or experience an issue.