Stealth

Description

The evolution of stealth technology and detection technology has occurred in parallel, with the most advanced stealth techniques having to avoid detection by radar, thermal detection and visible light. Radar technology was used heavily throughout World War II, easily detecting aircraft long before they can attack. In modern times, computational models for radar deflection off different shapes allowed the design of aircraft that are almost invisible to radar. Additional design factors hide the infrared emission of stealth fighters, making heat-seeking missiles less effective. The most prominent stealth aircraft are fighters, which can quickly approach a target, launch an attack, and flee before detection or counter-attack. Stealth fighters have seen great success in the Gulf War, where the 42 deployed F-117s suffered no damage while striking 1,600 valuable targets.