This package contains 3 versions of the X-15A-2 with external propellant tanks and the mighty XLR-99 rocket engine.
The X-15A-2, serial number AF56-6671, was a modified version of the X-15 rocket plane, specifically designed to allow longer engine burn times and to attain hypersonic velocities in the range of 8000 feet per second at an altitude of 100,000 feet.
The main modifications were the addition of a 29-inch fuselage section to the center of gravity compartment and two large aluminum external propellant tanks which can be jettisoned and re-used.
The added propellant permits alonger engine run which results in added velocity. After the X-15-2 aircraft was damaged in 1962, it was rebuilt as the advanced X-15A-2 and was delivered to Edwards Air Force Base in February 1964.
In October 1967, Air Force Pilot Pete Knight took the X-15A-2 to Mach 6.7 or 4520 mph, the fastest manned aircraft flight recorded to date if we exclude the Space Shuttle.
The X-15A-2 completed 22 flights between June 1964 and October 1967.
Features
Custom X-15 flight model to simulate rocket-powered high-speed and high-altitude flight in FS2004 and FSX
Supersonic flight up to Mach 4.65 in FS2004 and FSX
High-altitude flight up to 354,200 feet in FSX, 100,000 feet in FS2004
Can be launched either from a high altitude like the real X-15 or take off from an airport runway like other Flight Simulator aircraft
Good maneuvrability at supersonic speeds and excellent gliding capabilities
Highly detailed 3D models with more than 300 parts, 60 animations, reflective textures and unique markings, based on archive material
Fully functional instrument panels with 240 custom gauges and systems to simulate almost every step and procedure required in a typical X-15 mission
Spectacular visual effects including rocket engine flames, APU exhaust and propellant jettison effects
Uses a custom fuel management system with three different types of propellants water-alcohol or ammonia, liquid oxygen and hydrogen peroxide and pressurized helium or nitrogen, like in the real-world X-15 rocket plane
Includes a comprehensive 100-page user manual inspired from the original X-15 utility flight manuals, in a printable PDF format English and French language versions are included with the software |
