Usage Conditions May Apply Usage Conditions Apply There are restrictions for re-using this media. For more information, visit the Smithsonian's Terms of Use page. IIIF provides researchers rich metadata and image viewing options for comparison of works across cultural heritage collections. More - https://iiif.si.edu View Manifest View in Mirador Viewer Usage Conditions May Apply Usage Conditions Apply There are restrictions for re-using this media. For more information, visit the Smithsonian's Terms of Use page. IIIF provides researchers rich metadata and image viewing options for comparison of works across cultural heritage collections. More - https://iiif.si.edu View Manifest View in Mirador Viewer

This tail fin, from an F-16 jet fighter, is made of composite materials and was developed to test the feasibility of using composites in place of aluminum. Composite structures are made from carbon fibers, aligned in precise patterns and bonded with an epoxy. They are lighter but more difficult to manufacture and repair than aluminum structures.

 Display Status

This object is not on display at the National Air and Space Museum. It is either on loan or in storage.
Object Details
Country of Origin United States of America Type CRAFT-Aircraft Parts Manufacturer General Dynamics, Ft. Worth Division
 Physical Description Trapezoidal composite and metal black and grey aircraft tail fin. Dimensions Overall: 10 ft. tall x 2 ft. 5 in. wide x 8 ft. deep (304.8 x 73.7 x 243.8cm)
 Materials Carbon-fiber composite
 Inventory Number A19880370000 Credit Line Gift of General Dynamics, Inc. Data Source National Air and Space Museum Restrictions & Rights Usage conditions apply
For more information, visit the Smithsonians Terms of Use.