Thrust Vector Control System – Defining Sky

Posted by Afzal Shamim on April 18th, 2022

Introduction

Thrust Vectoring or Thrust Vector Control (TVC) is the system used in aircrafts and rockets to manipulate the direction of thrust to control the attitude or angular velocity of the vehicle.

This system is commonly found in fighter jets, rockets, and spacecrafts. As spacecraft reaches in space and there is no atmosphere or air to control its maneuvering, thrust vector control system helps it in achieving desired attitude in the space.

As ballistic missiles fly outside the atmosphere, control surfaces are ineffective and thus required thrust vectoring to control its direction.

 Although fighter jets travel inside the earth’s atmosphere, thrust vectoring helps them to achieve maneuvers which are not possible using conventional control surface. This aid as extra benefit for them while in combat. Apart from this, this system helps in attaining the ability of vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) and short takeoff and landing (STOL) for them.

Working Principal

When thrust is generated, it passes through rocket’s center of mass, generating zero net moment. Using two or more separate hinged nozzle or separate system altogether such as fins and vanes in the exhaust plums of the rocket engine, we can deflect thrust line direction and can control its pitch and yaw movement.

In aircraft, Fluidic Thrust Vectoring (FTV) method diverts thrust via secondary fluidic injections. Tests show that air forced into a jet engine exhaust stream can deflect thrust up to 15 degrees. This will likely be used in many unmanned aerial vehicle (UAVs), and 6th generation fighter aircraft.

Market Prospect

In recent times many endeavors have been made by governments and private institution for space explorations which is expected to increase with the passage of the time. Many new companies are looking forward in such explorations.

Air defence has become the most important aspect in strengthening the military and aircrafts having excellent maneuvering control with the ability of VTOL and STOL can help nation to deploy the air force anywhere in the world.

As per Delvens’ market analysis report, global Thrust Vector Control market is anticipated to reach USD 12.5 billion in 2021 growing at a CAGR of 15.2% during the forecasting period, 2021-2028.

Conclusion

In coming future space exploration by nations and private institutions will increase and militaries will be more strengthen by introducing new technologies and data from Delvens, all together clearly indicates that in coming future thrust vector control market will grow exponentially.