New wing being designed for the Sukhoi Superjet

The first option features a higher thickness ratio, the second reduced sweep (TsAGI)

Russia’s Central Aerohydrodynamic Institute (TsAGI) has been instructed by the Sukhoi Civil Aircraft Company (SCAC), manufacturer of the Superjet 100 (SSJ100) regional jet series, to design new wing modifications for the would-be future members of the SSJ family, including the shortened SSJ75 version. The 75-seat model, currently under development, requires a smaller wing.

The institute has already designed and produced aerodynamic models for two alternative wing options both of which, according to a statement, “incorporate an improved wing aspect ratio, higher lifting performance and simplified production technology compared with the existing SSJ100 wing” – as well as reduced structural weight, Russia’s leading aviation research lab reports. The first option features a higher thickness ratio and the second, reduced sweep. The new wing models have been subjected to TsAGI’s trans-sonic wind tunnel testing as has the base wing model, with the experiments successfully proving the advantages of the new designs.

“According to our preliminary calculations, the solutions offered by TsAGI experts along with structural improvements suggested by SCAC, will lead to an almost 10 per cent improvement of the aircraft’s fuel efficiency. Further on, these modifications may be used for future members of the SSJ family,” TsAGI says.

Last month, the institute commenced research for the Shukhoi Superjet 75 programme. When the tests are complete, the organisation will offer recommendations for reducing the noise levels in the cabin of the advanced model.

The new models have been tested in TsAGI’s trans-sonic aerodynamic wind tunnel, along with the base wing version (TsAGI)