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Speed tape is an aluminum pressure-sensitive tape used to do minor repairs on aircraft and racing cars. It is used as a temporary repair material until a more permanent repair can be carried out. It has an appearance similar to duct tape, for which it is sometimes mistaken, but its adhesive is capable of sticking on an airplane fuselage or wing at high speeds, hence the name.
Apparently, it reflects UV light, can contract or expand in different temperatures, is flame retardant (at least for a short period) and resistant to water. Perhaps that is why it can run hundreds of dollars just for a single roll.
The use of this tape is regulated by the Federal Aviation Administration and is perfectly safe. Still, there is something psychologically discomforting about seeing tape on a plane.
The only issue I would suggest is that the tape on the F22 appears to be part of the pre Ram coating process. The tape on the Tejas wing appears to be repairs on the wing. (With a lot around the hardpoints) this is interesting when you add the context of that hard point failure in the news recently.
IAF initiates inquiry after Tejas fuel tank falls mid-flight in Tamil Nadu
The fuel tank caused a three-foot deep crater and a minor fire in Irgur village, news agency PTI reported.
Perhaps people with a bit of knowledge around composites can comment.
