The YF-118G Bird of Prey: Uncovering the Secret History of a Forgotten Stealth Pioneer
The YF-118G Bird of Prey was a classified technology demonstrator developed by McDonnell Douglas's Phantom Works in the 1990s. This sub-scale aircraft was designed to test revolutionary stealth technologies and advanced, cost-effective manufacturing techniques. Its unique design, which prioritized low observability from all angles, was developed using 3D virtual reality and built with large, single-piece composite structures. Despite flying 38 successful test missions between 1996 and 1999, the project remained secret until 2002. The lessons learned from the Bird of Prey directly influenced subsequent stealth programs, including the X-45 UCAV and the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter.
Official Source: https://nationalinterest.org/blog/buzz/yf-118g-bird-prey-stealth-aircraft-history-forgot-about-210734
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