by Professor » Mon Feb 18, 2013 11:13 am
I read an article in Air Force Association magazine a few months back about stealth technology. I don't remember the specifics, and can't find the article. But, it basically said that stealth technology is quickly becoming irrelevant. The US is beginning production of new aircraft detection systems that can track even the stealthiest planes that are being produced. I remember them talking about using satellites and atmospheric sensors. I think it was called passive radar or something. Basically, various sensors are used to detect ambient light, air pressure, sound waves, and other types of radiation (IR, ultraviolet, radio waves, etc.) to get an overall picture of a section of sky. Then, when an aircraft flies through it, it will alter some or all of those things. It'll block sunlight, it'll reflect some radio waves, it'll alter air pressure, etc. Get enough sensors linked together and you get a good idea of where the aircraft is. Then, once you get an idea, you can visually search and track it.