Which component provides primary support in a stressed skin aircraft wing?

In a stressed skin aircraft wing, the skin panels are critical as they provide primary support by carrying loads and contributing to the overall structural integrity of the wing. The skin is designed to handle aerodynamic forces, including lift and drag, allowing it to act as a structural element rather than just a covering. This design approach effectively spreads the loads across the wing's surface, enabling the skin to maintain its shape and support the structure.

The other components, such as stringers, frames, and rivets, also play essential roles in the overall structure of the wing. Stringers, for example, are longitudinal reinforcements that help add rigidity and resist bending. Frames are vertical supports that help maintain the wing's shape and provide additional strength against compressive loads. Rivets are fasteners that hold the various components together, ensuring a strong connection between them. However, without the skin panels, the wing would lack the necessary capability to withstand aerodynamic loads, making the skin the primary supportive element of the design.