A study of the design considerations for low observable aircraft

Stealth, or low observable, technology is now a requirement for virtually every weapons platform in development. The generations of stealth technology began with the U-2 and SR-71. The B-1B and F-117 followed as second generation stealth aircraft. The A-12 and B-2 were designed with third generation stealth technology. The Advanced Tactical Fighter (ATF) and Naval ATF were considered fourth generation. Currently, the F-22 and AX are fifth generation technology. The growth in low observable technology has been explosive and its implementation requires a different design frame of reference. Design trade-offs must be made in terms of low observability over the entire electromagnetic spectrum. An aircraft which incorporates stealth characteristics enhances survivability. Operationally, this equates to the aircrew being able to deliver ordnance on a target and return home safely. This study will give insight to design criteria for low observable platforms and discuss some of the negative aspects of the technology. All research was done at the unclassified level. Additionally, information was gathered from subject matter experts at the Naval Air Weapons Center, China Lake, Ca. Incorporation of stealth technology was found to be imperative for survivability. The design trade-offs in airframe size, engine performance, and weapons carriage capabilities are well worth the effort.