What type of wings does the XB-15 feature?

Prepare for the Spaatz Aerospace Exam. Study with flashcards and multiple choice questions. Learn with hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam!

The XB-15 features oblique wings, which are characterized by a unique design where the wings are angled backward at an oblique angle. This aerodynamic configuration allows for improved performance at high speeds and reduces drag, particularly during transonic and supersonic flight. The design of oblique wings enables the aircraft to maintain stability and control while experiencing lower structural loads in comparison to traditional wing designs.

Oblique wings also allow for greater lift-to-drag ratios, which is beneficial for long-range flight. The XB-15’s wing design was a pioneering step that demonstrated the potential advantages of this wing configuration in military and civilian aviation.

Other wing types, such as forward-swept wings and mission-adaptive wings, have their own specific advantages and applications, but they do not describe the XB-15's wing structure. Conventional wings, while effective, do not provide the same aerodynamic benefits that oblique wings offer, especially in the context for which the XB-15 was designed.

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