Stealth+Aircraft

"Stealth." //Stealth//. Ohio University, Web. 6 Sep. 2010. . "Planes capable of dropping nuclear bombs can now fly invisibly into enemy airspace, drop a payload, and fly back out without even being detected." "The way most airplane identification works is by constantly bombarding airspace with a RADAR signal." "When a plane flies into the path of the RADAR, a signal bounces back to a sensor that determines the size and location of the plane." "Other methods focus on measuring acoustic (sound) disturbances, visual contact, and infrared (heat) signatures." "Stealth technologies work by reducing or eliminating these telltale signals." "Panels on planes are angled so that radar is scattered and no signal returns." "Planes are also covered in a layer of absorbent materials that reduce any other signature the plane might leave." "Shape also has a lot to do with the `invisibility' of stealth planes." "Extreme aerodynamics keep air turbulence to a minimum and cut down on flying noise. " "The B-2 stealth bomber has a "bat-wing" shape to reduce its RADAR cross-section, as well as visual recognition, especially on the horizon." "Special low-noise engines are contained inside the body of the plane. Hot fumes are then capable of being mixed with cool air before leaving the plane." "This fools heat sensors on the ground. This also keeps heat seeking missiles from getting any sort of a lock on their targets." "Stealth technology was initially developed to bypass intense Soviet defense systems." "Since the end of the Cold War, stealth has proved itself in various conflicts." "During the Gulf War, 56 Stealth Bombers flew 1,270 missions, and were never hit."