F-117A Nighthawk
by Staff EditorF-117A Nighthawk is the world's first operational aircraft designed to exploit low-observable stealth technology. To avoid disclosing its location, it doesn’t use radar for guidance of weapon delivery. This precision-strike aircraft penetrates high-threat airspace and uses laser-guided weapons against critical targets. Although it bears the “F” designation of a fighter, the Nighthawk carries no air-to-air munitions, operating exclusively as a ground attack aircraft. Its limited range (which can be extended indefinitely with aerial refueling) and small payload make it a tactical strike aircraft, rather than a long-range strategic bomber. The F-117 made its combat debut in 1991’s Operation Desert Storm where it was the only U.S. or coalition aircraft to strike targets in downtown Baghdad.
F-117A Specifications
| Manufacturer: | Lockheed |
| First Flight: | 6/1981 |
| Wingspan: | 43.3 ft. (13.2 m) |
| Height: | 12.8 ft. (3.9 m) |
| Length: | 63.8 ft. (19.4 m) |
| Payload: | 5,000 lbs. (2,300 kg) internal only |
| Thurst: | 10,600 lbs. (47 kN) x two engines |
| Top Speed at Altitude: | High subsonic |
| Ceiling: | classified |
| Range: | 800 nm (1,500 km) |
| Crew: | One |
