CFD is applied to the prediction of the downwash flowfield behind a KC-13S tanker. Results show the criticality of capturing the trailing vortex behind the wing using a fine mesh out into the far field. Results are compared to theory, vortex lattice results, and wind tunnel data. While numerical dissipation is evident in the premature spreading of the vortex core, this does not affect the downwash flowfield, which is the critical factor in aerial refueling. Euler solutions with properly applied gridding are shown to be sufficient for capturing the tanker flowfield for aerial refueling needs.
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