1. Shape and Design: The F-22's overall shape and design are carefully crafted to minimize radar reflections. Its airframe features smooth, curved surfaces and angular edges to deflect radar waves away from the aircraft. The inlets, exhaust nozzles, and other external features are also designed to minimize radar returns.
2. Radar-Absorbent Materials (RAM): The F-22's outer surfaces are coated with Radar-Absorbent Materials (RAM) that help absorb radar energy instead of reflecting it. These materials contain special composites that dissipate radar waves as heat, reducing the aircraft's overall RCS.
3. Internal Weapons Bays: To further minimize radar returns, the F-22 has internal weapons bays that house its air-to-air missiles and bombs. By keeping the weapons concealed within the aircraft's fuselage, the F-22 presents a smaller radar target.
4. Active Cancellation: The F-22 incorporates an advanced electronic warfare system that employs active cancellation techniques. This system generates signals that are precisely timed to cancel out incoming radar waves, further reducing the aircraft's radar signature.
5. Low-Observable Engine Inlets: The F-22's engine inlets are specifically designed to minimize radar reflections from the hot engine exhaust. This is achieved through shaping and the use of RAM, along with careful management of the engine exhaust temperatures and airflow.
6. Integrated Defensive Systems: The F-22's stealth design is complemented by a comprehensive suite of defensive systems, such as electronic countermeasures (ECM) and electronic support measures (ESM). These systems help detect and jam enemy radar and infrared threats, further enhancing the aircraft's survivability.
The combination of these stealth technologies makes the F-22 Raptor one of the most difficult aircraft to detect and track on radar, giving it a significant advantage in air combat situations.
