Experimentation and other roles

Falcon jets are high-performance and economically efficient aircraft. Their flight characteristics, aerodynamic design, low consumption and versatility make them capable of performing a wide spectrum of missions in the most demanding environments.

National Research Organizations or Governmental Services use testbed aircraft to evaluate new systems and equipment that advance the aeronautical art, including new propulsion technologies, aerodynamic innovations and digital control technologies.

Such programs are sustained by a substantial support from an OEM’s engineering organization.

On specific demand, Dassault can provide extensive assistance with the unique modifications needed.

As example, ISTAR (In-flight Systems and Technologies Airborne Research) is a modified Falcon 2000LX provides the German Aerospace Center DLR with a platform for the study of innovative technologies, simulation of new aircraft and continuing to facilitate increasing digitalisation in the aeronautics sector. The flexibility and versatility of the Falcon 2000 accommodates the specific needs of DLR

  • Special on-board system infrastructure for flight test experiments
  • Data collection system for in-flight acquisition of aircraft and experiment data
  • Additional flight test instruments (62 acceleration sensors and 40 strain gauges)
  • Experimental antennas for communications and navigation research

ISTAR is particularly efficient in the following areas:

  • Investigation of the flight characteristics of newly developed aircraft configurations through in-flight simulation
  • Development of environmentally friendly components
  • Evaluation of pilot assistance systems ¬– for example, for automated taxiing and take-off
  • Aerodynamics
  • Aeroelasticity and structural dynamics

This research aircraft is essential for the development of new, efficient and environmentally friendly aircraft, engines and pilot assistance systems. ISTAR will drive the evolution of technologies that enable climate-neutral aviation.