When it was first revealed in 1990 during Operation Desert Storm, the Lockheed F-117 Nighthawk, also known as the “Stealth Fighter,” took the world by surprise. First of all, it was the first stealth aircraft to see action, especially in a world of F-15s, F-16s, Tornados, and MiG-29s. Second, it gave the impression of being a deadly fighter jet not just because of its stealth capabilities but also due to its sheer appearance. Third, it carried the “F” designation, giving the impression that it would either be a dogfighter or a multi-role aircraft. However, the F-117 is far from being either. Instead, the F-117 is a subsonic ground attack aircraft. But why did the F-117 get an “F” designation? Why not an “A,” which stands for “Attack,” like the A-10 Thunderbolt II, A-7 Corsair II, and the A-4 Skyhawk?
The “F” designation on the F-117 is due to sheer secrecy! Here is the story.
The F-117 Stealth Fighter was developed by Lockheed Martin and first flew on June 18, 1981. Designed primarily for ground attack missions, the F-117 uses stealth technology to evade enemy radar and deliver precision strikes. Its unique angular shape and radar-absorbent materials make it difficult to detect. The F-117 Stealth Fighter’s main role is to penetrate dense air-defense systems and attack high-value targets with minimal detection.
Equipped with two internal bomb bays, the F-117 Stealth Fighter carries a variety of precision-guided munitions. Its typical armaments include laser-guided bombs like the GBU-10 Paveway II and the GBU-27 Paveway III. The aircraft does not carry any air-to-air missiles or guns, focusing instead on stealth technology and precision strike capabilities. This specialization defines its operational use and distinguishes it from traditional fighter aircraft.
Why the Fighter Designation?
Despite being a ground-attack aircraft, the F-117 Stealth Fighter carries the “F” designation, traditionally used for fighter aircraft. This was part of a deliberate effort to maintain secrecy during its development. By labeling it as a fighter, the program concealed its true purpose as a stealth attack aircraft. Additionally, the designation helped in funding and bureaucratic processes within the military. The “F” in F-117 stands as a reminder of its classified origins and the emphasis on stealth technology.
If the F-117 Stealth Fighter were to engage in a dogfight with a jet fighter, it would be at a severe disadvantage. Without air-to-air weapons or advanced maneuverability, the F-117 cannot effectively defend itself against enemy fighters. Its design prioritizes stealth technology over speed and agility. In such a scenario, the F-117 Stealth Fighter would rely on its stealth technology to avoid detection and escape rather than engage in combat.
While anyone might mistake the F-117 for a dogfighter or an interceptor, it is far from those. The “F” designation on the F-117 was merely to conceal its purpose and secrecy. However, now that the F-117 is public and we all know its purpose, does Lockheed Martin have plans to change its designation to “A” or rename it A-117? Oh yes, I forgot; the plane has been retired from service. But who knows? These planes might not be completely retired but just taking a “hiatus”—maybe.
First love never dies. I fell in love with airplanes and aviation when I was a kid. My dream was to become a pilot, but destiny led me to another path: to be an aviation digital media content creator and a small business owner. My passion for aviation inspires me to bring you quality content through my website and social accounts. Aviation is indeed in my blood and blog!
