Need for new materials in aging aircraft structures

Post-Cold War political and economic considerations have resulted in efforts to extend the life of many aircraft that are the backbone of NATO operational forces. Although some are designated to be replaced with new aircraft, the replacement schedule for many often requires an unprecedented life span of up to 80 years before retirement. Aircraft within these older fleets have had, and continue to experience with growing frequency, fatigue and corrosion related cracking problems that are of concern to operators. To sustain their airworthiness and reduce the maintenance burden, structural components undergoing these aging problems will have to be repaired or replaced. Material development that has taken place since most of the older vintage military aircraft entered service has resulted in improved alloys and processes that can be used to upgrade life expectation, performance, and affordability of older systems. Some of these newer materials and the advantages they offer over their older counterparts are described.