The development and application of experimental capabilities in rotorcraft is essential for validation of aeromechanics, acoustics, structural response, and propulsion fundamental methods.

Experimental capabilities research concentrates on the development and implementation of functionally independent instrumentation systems for the acquisition of experimental data in laboratory, wind tunnel, or flight tests for validation of rotorcraft predictive codes. Each area involves the development, testing, and implementation of specialized instrumentation systems that bridge technology gaps in current rotorcraft testing capability. Key challenges addressed in the discipline include measuring rotor wake, blade airloads, blade deformation, in-flight rotorcraft state, and high-temperature, high-pressure sensors for drive-train applications.