AFRL Successfully Tests SIXA Structural Component Published Dec. 5, 2006 By Air Vehicles Directorate AFRL/VA WRIGHT-PATTERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Ohio -- AFRL completed a successful component-level destruct test under the Structurally Integrated X-Band Array (SIXA) program. SIXA is a high-frequency (X-band), load-bearing, phased-array antenna concept that is integrated within a structure and can double as an aircraft component such as a weapons bay door or a wing structure component. During the test, researchers tested a large component on a four-point loading fixture, which allowed them to control the level of bending and torsion. They subjected the component to conditions that would simulate its operating environment, such as cold and hot temperatures, impact damage, and flight spectrum loads. The research team detected no degradation in the structure. Furthermore, the component also exceeded expectations in the failure test, which the team conducted to determine the ultimate strength and buckling stability. The SIXA concept could play a vital role in developing future air vehicles such as the SensorCraft concept, a future intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance air vehicle. The SIXA program is a collaborative effort between AFRL, Boeing, and Raytheon.