Dreiecksflügelplanform

Dreiecksflügelplanform, also known as a delta wing, is a wing shape characterized by its triangular form. The leading edge of a delta wing is swept back, while the trailing edge is typically straight. This configuration is often seen on high-speed aircraft, both military and civilian, as well as on some missiles. The delta wing's design offers several advantages at high speeds. Its large surface area and internal volume can accommodate fuel and equipment. The swept leading edge helps to reduce drag at supersonic speeds by delaying the formation of shock waves. At lower speeds, the delta wing generates lift through a phenomenon known as a leading-edge vortex. This vortex forms along the sharp leading edge and re-energizes the airflow over the wing, preventing stall and allowing for controlled flight even at high angles of attack. However, delta wings can suffer from poorer low-speed handling characteristics and increased landing speeds compared to more conventional wing designs. Despite these drawbacks, the inherent stability and performance at high Mach numbers have made the delta wing a popular and enduring choice for many aircraft designs.