The modern warfare strategies have been enhanced to a new height with the introduction of new technologies and techniques. Every day comes with a new update or advancement of technology. Stealth is the technology that is considered as the lead part of the 5th generation aircrafts and other defense weapons like missiles and submarines. The technology is a demand of many nations, especially developing nations. India is also in the queue as it AMCA and FGFA projects are in progress.
What is Stealth Technology?
It is the name given to the technology, where the weapons or machines are made less visible or invisible to the radar, sonar or another detection method. The technology is used for missile, aircrafts, ships, satellites and submarines. The aim of its origin was to reduce the detectability of the weapon in enemy territory. Camouflage is the basic and simplest technique used in the Stealth.
Now talking about the top 5 stealth aircrafts, these mostly belong to the developed nations and flourished in military aspects. The toppers of the list are from China, U.S. and Russia. The jets in the top rankings are given below with a short gist about them.
- PAK FA T-50 – It is under prototype phase and is being produced by Sukhoi. It will be made to perform air superiority and attack operations. It uses technology to reduce radar cross-section and its weapons are carried inside its frame.
- Shenyang J-31 – It is a twin-engine, single pilot, fifth generation stealth aircraft by China. It is under development and will be nick named as “Falcon hawk”. It is smaller than J-20 and need more manuveour then it with a bit high handling power.
- Chegdu J-20 – It is also a product of china. It is also twin engine, fifth generation, stealth jet, which is undergoing through development procedures. It has a reported speed of 2100 km/h speed and is expected to be the ace aircraft of the Chinese Air Force.
- F-22 Raptor – Originated in the U.S. it has got fame in the world of aircrafts. It was made to conduct air superiority tasks, but is also used to perform ground attack, signal intelligence and electronic warfare. It has many features of stealth.
- F-35 Lightening – Another entrant from U.S., it is a production of Lockheed Martin and is a single engine multirole aircraft. It is developed version of X-35. The project F-35 II is termed as the most expensive weapon project in the history. It uses radar absorbent material to enhance stealth features, but has a huge, loud sound while landing and take-off.
Conclusion – All other nations are applying their efforts to induct such aircrafts into their Air Force. India is also in the race with its ongoing projects of AMCA and FGFA (by India and Russia). The technology is being seen as the game changer of the modern warfare. Stealth technology is being enhanced and simultaneously superpowers are curiously indulged in manufacturing efficient radars to detect them for securing their territory. India is also working hard to include this technology in all fields and bolster its power.
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