We ensured
the ES-3A’s carrier suitability
by Jim W.
I
was the Vought aircraft test project engineer on the Lockheed ES-3A structural
static test program conducted in Dallas, Texas. Testing ensured the aircraft’s carrier
suitability. Our test laboratory designed, fabricated and tested a unique
dynamic test facility for conducting the drop test program, simulating aircraft
carrier landings. I made many visits to Burbank and Rye Canyon, coordinating
the test program to be conducted by the Vought test lab. A description of the
drop test facility was published in the November 16, 1972 issue of the Lockheed Star.
