What does the Variable Exhaust Nozzle (VEN) provide?

• A. A controlled throat area (A8) for the exhaust gasses from the turbine and AB.
• B. Increases inlet air pressure to the compressor.
• C. Provides a cooling circuit for the afterburner.
• D. Delivers anti-ice air to the inlet.

Answer: (A)

The main idea is that the Variable Exhaust Nozzle changes the exit area of the engine’s exhaust to control how the exhaust gases expand and accelerate. By adjusting the throat area, the nozzle can keep the right pressure and flow for different engine power settings and whether afterburner is on or off. This optimization improves thrust and overall engine efficiency, because the exhaust is neither over- nor under-expanded at a given flight condition. The other functions described—raising inlet pressure, cooling the afterburner, or delivering anti-ice air to the inlet—are not roles of the exhaust nozzle.