Why does the US Air Force still operate the F-117 Nighthawk fighter jet after its retirement?
Although officially retired in 2008, the F-117 Nighthawk squadron will continue to conduct training and technology testing missions until at least 2034.
The U.S. Air Force continues to operate its F-117 Nighthawk squadron even though the aircraft officially retired 16 years ago. Instead of being completely dismantled, these "Nighthawks" are playing a vital role in training new generation pilots and testing advanced defense systems at Tonopah Air Force Base, Nevada.
The actual role behind fighter jet designation
The F-117 Nighthawk is known as a pioneering icon of the modern stealth warfare era. A noteworthy detail is that the "F" (Fighter) in its name is actually a deliberate misdirection by the US military to conceal its true role.
According to technical analyses, air combat was not this aircraft's forte. Instead, the F-117 was specifically designed to penetrate deep into dense enemy air defense networks and conduct precision strikes on ground targets. Its distinctive angular design helped the aircraft optimally reflect and absorb radar waves, allowing it to operate almost invisible to the surveillance systems of the time.
Technical specifications and performance capabilities
Despite being developed in the 1980s, the F-117's specifications still demonstrate stable operational performance:
- Maximum speed:Approximately 1,130 km/h.
- Flight range:Over 1,609 km without needing in-flight refueling.
- Crew:One pilot is in control.
- Year of operation:1983.
Why do retired squadrons continue to serve?
The U.S. Air Force's retention of the F-117 Nighthawk is not solely for storage purposes. In the context of increasing challenges from hypersonic weapons and 5th- and 6th generation fighters, this aircraft has become a valuable tool to support new development projects.
Mobile Technology Lab
The F-117 currently serves as a live test platform for new military technologies. Modern radar systems and infrared tracking equipment are installed on the F-117 to test its ability to detect stealth targets. Using a decommissioned airframe minimizes financial and security risks should an incident occur during testing, compared to using aircraft currently in combat service.
Combat training and pilot training
The F-117 served as a "blue team" in training exercises, helping pilots of the new generation of fighter jets learn how to deal with targets that had low radar cross-sections (RCS). The F-117's stealth capabilities provided the most realistic simulation scenario for US air defense and air force forces.
Vision to 2034
In addition to classified military missions, some F-117s have been transferred to museums under the U.S. Air Force Heritage Program. For example, the Hill Air and Space Museum in Utah has displayed one since 2020 to serve the community in learning about the history of aviation technology.
With plans for at least another eight years of service, the F-117 Nighthawk proves the enduring value of a revolutionary design. From quiet training programs in Nevada to radar testing projects, this aircraft is laying the groundwork for the future of the U.S. Air Force until 2034.
