This paper demonstrates the Detached-Eddy Simulation approach for the computation of flows around uninhabited combat air vehicles. This new family of aircraft may feature weapon bays to enhance stealth characteristics and improve aerodynamic performance. However, during operation with the bay open, a highly energetic flow-field develops that influences the aerodynamics of the aircraft. For this reason, detailed CFD analyses are necessary to provide the loads encountered when weapon bays are exposed. In contrast to previous studies where idealised, isolated cavities are used as model problems, a realistic aircraft geometry is used in this work. The results show noise levels as high as 170 dB and a very unsteady flow. The pressure drag of the vehicle was also increased by 360% when the cavity was exposed.
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