Symmetric leading edge device and method to delay flow separation

A vertical tail for an airborne mobile platform, comprising:

• a main element that is non-moveable;
• a symmetric element that is linearly moveable and disposed adjacent to said main element to form a leading edge element for said vertical tail, the leading edge element being movable from a first leading edge position to a second leading edge position;
• and
• a control system including an actuator for linearly extending the leading edge element from a retracted position to a deployed position wherein said leading edge element forms a gap, serving to affect an airflow over said vertical tail to reduce a loss of control speed for said airborne mobile platform.

A method for increasing an aerodynamic yawing moment created by a vertical tail of an airborne mobile platform, comprising:

• providing said vertical tail with separate leading edge and main elements;
• fixedly securing said main element to a portion of said mobile platform;
• movably securing said leading edge element;
• and
• moving said leading edge element between first and second positions to control a yawing moment generated by said vertical tail.