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F-117 Nighthawk
The F-117A Nighthawk, commonly called the 'Stealth Fighter'
is
the world's first operational low-observable aircraft. The F-117
can carry 2 2000lb. laser-guided bombs or nuclear bombs and can
evade any air defense system in the world, although 1 F-117 was shot-down
over Kososvo in 1999. The 'stealth' is a combination of special
maneuvers, low-IR output (mixed with cool air and spread), and
flat panel design with a special RAM coating. The cockpit of the
F-117 is covered with gold film to reduce radar signature and the
aircraft usually only flies at night to avoid being detected by
visual contact.
General Characteristics
Primary Function: Fighter/attack
Contractor: Lockheed Aeronautical Systems Co.
Power Plant: Two General Electric F404 engines
Length: 65 feet, 11 inches (20.3 meters)
Height: 12 feet, 5 inches (3.8 meters)
Weight: 52,500 pounds (23,625 kilograms)
Wingspan: 43 feet, 4 inches (13.3 meters)
Speed: High subsonic
Range: Unlimited with air refueling
Armament: Internal weapons carriage
Unit Cost: $45 million
Crew: One
Date Deployed: 1982
Inventory: Active force, 54; ANG, 0; Reserve, 0
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