This is a blog that I wrote for the Evergreen Aviation and Space Museum, on the history of the Lockheed F-117A Nighthawk. My writing underwent multiple stages of review and required hours of research. I make sure to describe the F-117’s first-of-a-kind technology, why and how the first prototype was developed, and how the aircraft has been effective in warfare.
History
The F-117 A Nighthawk is the world's first operational stealth aircraft, and part of its legacy is having shown that stealth technology is a necessary component for military aircraft. As retired Air Force F-117 pilot, LT. Col. Scott Stimpert says, “Post F-117, no credible air combat design does not include low observability as a key performance parameter. The Nighthawk has been a important component of United States military operations, and was a powerful tool in stopping dictatorships and genocide around the world.
The Conception of the F-117A
The first prototype for a stealth aircraft, “Have Blue”, was built in 1977 by the Lockheed Advanced Development Company. “Have Blue” cost $37 million to build. LADD, better known as “Skunk Works”, was awarded the contract to build the Nighthawk less than a year after “Have Blue’s” first successful flight. While the first F-117A flew in 1981, and the first unit achieved operating capability in October 1983, the aircraft was kept secret from the public until 1990. During the 10 years of secrecy, the aircraft was flown exclusively under the cover of night.
The Technology of the Nighthawk
The stealth technology that makes the F-117A Nighthawk invisible to radar is a combination of two technologies: faceting and radar absorbent material. The surface of the airframe is divided into triangular facets, which scatters radar at odd angles, preventing it from being reflected back to the receiver. The entire surface of the F-117A is also covered with a radar-absorbing material. The Nighthawk's weapons consist of two weapon bays, one for each of its 2000-pound laser-guided bombs. It uses an accurate targeting system and a thermal imaging sensor to generate TV-quality images of distant objects.
Operation Just Cause
The Nighthawk first saw combat during Operation Just Cause on December 19, 1989, which was part of the US invasion of Panama to overthrow military dictator Manuel Noriega. During Operation Just Cause, F-117A Nighthawks landed 2000 pound bombs on Panama Defense Force (PDF) barracks.
Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm
Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm lasted from August 1990 - February 1991. These operations marked the beginning of the Gulf War, and their purpose was to prevent Saddam Hussein and Iraqi troops from taking control of Kuwait and the Middle East. During the Gulf War, there was not one F-117 hit, shot down, or lost to mechanical failure. The United States used F-117’s to target Iraqi command and control outposts, key communication centers, and storage, production, and research facilities for nuclear and chemical weapons.
Allied Force
During Operation Allied Force in 1999, NATO launched an air campaign to stop Yugoslavian President Slobodan Milosevic from comitting genocide on Kosovo citizens. Only one F-117 was lost in the operation, which is the only Nighthawk ever lost in combat.
Conclusion
The F-117 Nighthawk is a famous aircraft and a milestone in the history of aviation innovation. It has been a key weapon in US military operations, and illustrated stealth technology is a necessary component for military aircraft.