Although officially retired since 2008, the F-117 Nighthawk continues to unofficially fly
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Watch: F-117 Nighthawks Flying Low Over Eastern California
After some videos and photos had appeared on social media, the US Air Force admitted that the Nighthawk was kept in “Type 1000” storage, which meant the plane had to be maintained until being called to active service.
The conditions of the Nevada desert are perfect for keeping stealth jets in pristine conditions (due to the low humidity level and therefore, less likelihood of corrosion), hence the reason for operating the enigmatic aircraft there.
In September 2022, the Air Force Test Center posted a Request for Information (RFI) about a possible 10-year contract for maintenance and logistic support services for the F-117A fleet at the TTR airfield, acknowledging that the US Air Force is willing to keep the aircraft flying at least until 2034.
That’s why they continue to be seen as they fly their missions across the US, as happened on Friday, April 21, 2023, when aviation photographer Alex captured two Nighthawks flying low over the California mountains.
It is unknown how many Nighthawks are still airworthy. In January 2023, out of the 59 F-117s built, approximately 45 F-117 were in inventory, with over 10 already approved for transfer to museums.
The current scrapping rate is only between two and three jets a year, rather than the four per year announced in 2017.
F-117 Nighthawks
The F-117 Nighthawk is a stealth ground attack aircraft developed by Lockheed Martin in the United States. It was the first operational aircraft designed around stealth technology, which makes it hard for radar systems to detect the plane.
The F-117 made its first flight in 1981 and entered service with the United States Air Force in 1983. It saw combat during the Gulf War in 1991, where it was used to strike strategic targets with laser-guided bombs.
The aircraft has a distinct faceted shape that helps reduce its radar signature. It is powered by two General Electric F404 turbofan engines and has a top speed of about 620 miles per hour (1,000 km/h). It is also equipped with advanced avionics and a sophisticated radar system that allows it to operate in all weather conditions.
The F-117 was retired from service by the United States Air Force in 2008 and was replaced by the F-22 Raptor and the F-35 Lightning II. However, it remains a significant milestone in the development of stealth technology, and its design principles continue to influence the development of modern stealth aircraft.