An F/A-18D aircraft, set to join NASA's chase aircraft fleet at the Armstrong Flight Research Center, has received a striking new paint scheme and is approaching final approval for flight operations. Designated as NASA 862, this aircraft will play a crucial role in tracking the X-59 Quiet SuperSonic Technology (QueSST) demonstrator, which is scheduled for its inaugural flight later this year. Additionally, NASA 862 will serve as a dedicated platform for videographers and photographers to capture and document flight activities.
Expressing enthusiasm, Jack Ly, a flight operations engineer at NASA Armstrong, stated, "We're thrilled to welcome this aircraft to our fleet. Our goal is to integrate additional instrumentation in the coming months to support a wider range of missions."
Acquired by NASA from the U.S. Navy in 2021 as a replacement for Armstrong's F/A-18Bs, NASA 862 has undergone comprehensive weight and balance checks. The initial airworthiness review for the aircraft is anticipated to occur later this month. NASA further revealed that, based on its intended usage at the Armstrong Flight Research Center, NASA 862 is projected to have a lifespan of approximately 40 years, demonstrating its longevity for supporting future endeavors.