Maewing2: Initial flight test and system identification of a flexible uav

The flight testing, system identification, and model refinement of a flexible, flying wing aircraft, the mAEWing2, has been accomplished with an emphasis on a research-through-development approach. This paper provides critical background details in order to allow independent research using the gathered flight data. mAEWing2 is a subscale aircraft based on the X-56A aircraft. Testing methodology, analysis techniques, and lessons learned are detailed. Initial flight test results are presented with an emphasis on providing context to allow further productivity of the valuable data collected. Significant lessons learned during flight operations and flight data analysis are included.