Global General

F-117 Nighthawk

(lockheedmartin.com)
Updated: 2011-02-15 17:31

F-117 Nighthawk [Photo/xinmin.cn]

The F-117 Nighthawk, developed in total secrecy, was the first operational platform to employ what is known today as "stealth." Its startling, unconventional shape clearly signified the arrival of a new era in fighter performance through low-observable technology.

Since then, Lockheed Martin Aeronautics Company has introduced another revolutionary aspect to the fighter. Through total system performance responsibility (TSPR) for F-117 sustainment, this unprecedented contract provides technical, maintenance and modernization support to the 49th Fighter Wing and its F-117 fleet. This comprehensive support program provides such enhancements as lean manufacturing and repair processes, significantly faster spare parts fulfillment, reduced engineering response times, and technical publications.

F-117 Sustainment

In its first two years, TSPR has reduced sustainment costs 12 percent. Aircraft availability has been increased, total ownership costs reduced, and operational needs met or exceeded. TSPR is a combat-tested, combat-ready concept that affirms the F-117's place as a true Aerospace Expeditionary Force battlefield element.

F-117 Modernization

New materials and access-panel stealth technologies significantly reduce the signature. With upgrades to the stores management system, the new class of global-positioning-system-guided smart weapons enters the F-117's arsenal. In the near future, upgrades are planned for cockpit displays, data transfer systems and the Infrared Acquisition and Designation System.

F-117 Proven Performance

Operation Desert Storm first saw the potential of an aircraft that could penetrate dense threat environments at night. Comprising 2 to 3 percent of coalition forces, the F-117 accounted for 30 to 35 percent of first-night targets and hit rates of 75 percent in Desert Storm to over 90 percent in Operation Allied Force. The F-117 also sustained the highest mission-capability rates of any deployed fighter or bomber in both conflicts, exceeding 82 percent.

The F-117 has always symbolized revolutionary thinking. It continues to become more lethal, reliable, supportable and affordable through configuration upgrades. Its value has soared through TSPR, itself a revolutionary concept in fighter support.