The Life of AVEN ® — How a 1990s F-16 Thrust-Vectoring Nozzle Became the Key to X-BAT’s Vertical Takeoff

This post details the successful integration, actuation, and engine light-off testing of the AVEN with GE Aerospace's F110-GE-129E engine. It describes the adaptation of a 1990s F-16 thrust-vectoring nozzle for precise attitude control during hover and landing, highlighting the challenges of rethinking actuation, interface with the engine, and communication with flight controls for VTOL operations. The post also outlines future work on reengineering the nozzle with modern materials, guidance and control systems, and production techniques.