Performance Perspectives Blog

A demonstration of superior risk management

by | Apr 1, 2014

Risk measurement is a challenge; risk management, even more so.

This video is a great demonstration of properly managing risks.

What can we learn from it? I think that we 

  • have the vision to be able to see when things aren’t working out as planned or expected,
  • need to be able to assess our risks, 
  • have the proper training to know how to respond,
  • possess the requisite expertise to take the appropriate steps
  • have confidence that we can be successful.  

When it comes to investing, we know that we can do better in both the way we measure as well as manage risks. The “third M” of risk is “monitoring.” Much more can be said, no doubt.

As for what occurred in the video, here is the accompanying text:

It involved an F-35 unintentional loop at takeoff.

A supremely well-trained US Navy pilot, ice running in his veins instead of blood, fully regains control of his $70 million, F-35 joint strike force fighter, after a problematic vertical take-off attempt.
 
The rear vertical thruster fires, which causes the problem. There’s nothing about this the pilot enjoys. If he could have ejected at 100′ upside down and lived, he would have. 

Looks like the afterburner kicks in while still vectored for vertical takeoff. Lockheed would call this a “software malfunction” and do a little more “regressive testing”. This is a good demonstration of power-to-weight ratio of this aircraft! And talk about stability control… wow!

If he didn’t come out of the loop wings-level, it probably would have been bad news; maybe taking some of the carrier with him! Add to this flying through your own exhaust, which can lead to equipment malfunctions, as in “flame out.” 

The F-35 is single engine aircraft with vertical takeoff/landing capability, but it has the aerodynamics of a Steinway piano at zero airspeed. This is the most unbelievable piece of flying you will ever see in your life.

This guy’s coolness saved a 70 million-dollar aircraft! On the other hand, he might not have had time to react to anything except just ride it.

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