A stealth plane is an aircraft that can be hidden from radar detection. It is frequently used in strategic air bombing missions. It is possible for conventional aircraft not to be detected by radar and sneak into enemy's airspace.
Many technologies are used in stealth aircraft design. There are many materials that can absorb radar signals, including carbon-fibre composites and high-strength polymers.
Stealthy shapes can deflect radar echoes away form the radar source. That is why aircraft designers try not to use flat surfaces. They use shapes that are angled so that they return less radar echoes back to the sensor. This technique is also called parallel alignment (or surface alignment) and it is an important part in stealth technology.
A coating of radar-absorbing material on an aircraft's exterior is another stealth technology. This is a material that absorbs electromagnetic waves. It's usually found in radar-absorbing materials (RAM).
Some stealth aircraft have reentrant Triangles hidden behind their skin. These trap radar signals and reflect them outside. These structures can be made out of many materials, including iron ball paints or composites.
The F-117 Nighthawk was the world's first operational stealth fighter and the first to use this technology. It was first flown in 1983. 59 of them were built until 2008.
A number of stealth fighters are in development, including the B-21 Raider. These aircraft are stealthy in nature and have the ability to carry a large payload.
F-22 Raptor, a second generation of stealthy fighters, was designed with a smaller radar signature. This aircraft is capable "supercruise," at supersonic speeds. Additionally, it can carry weapons inside.
Although stealth isn't a perfect solution for the problems of air warfare it can make it more difficult for an enemy fighter to spot a stealthy plane and use heat-seeking missiles to take out the pilot. It can be used to allow attackers to operate within a more hostile environment and increase the odds of success against a well-defended target.
Nevertheless, it is important to remember that stealth is not an end in itself and that some future technology may render it obsolete. Although it's useful, it needs to be used in combination with other weapons for maximum effectiveness.
China is believed to have been developing a stealth aircraft in recent times. Although it will be a flying-wing aircraft that looks very similar to the Northrop Grumman B-2 Spirit in appearance, its capabilities are expected exceed those of that aircraft.
The aircraft is designed to be as versatile and adaptable as possible. It should be capable of performing a variety of roles including bombing, strafing, and flying off carriers. It also boasts advanced sensors and a sophisticated weapon systems. A state-of-the art manufacturing process will ensure it is stealthy to avoid detection from most of the aerial defenses.