Lockheed F-117 Nighthawk
By Chris Banyai-Riepl
Warpaint Series No. 138
Author: Andy Evans
Publisher: Guideline Publications
ISBN: 978-1-916759-00-8
Binding: Softcover
Pages: 48
A new title in the Warpaint Series, this book highlights the history of the first stealth fighter, the Lockheed F-117. As expected, the book covers its development, operations, and eventual retirement. Developed under the Have Blue project at Lockheed's Skunkworks, the F-117 transformed from a test airframe into a single-seat bomber, pioneering low-observable stealth technology. With only 64 units manufactured, it gained recognition for its service in conflicts in the Gulf and former Yugoslavia, utilizing components from existing airframes like the F-5, F-16, and A-10 to reduce costs.
The aircraft earned it the nickname "The Wobblin' Goblin" from its stealthy design and purported low-speed flight issues, which were mostly resolved before production. By the early 2000s, the F-117’s retirement loomed due to airframe wear and the emergence of more advanced technologies like the F-22 Raptor and F-35 Lightning II that rendered its 1970s stealth outdated.
The book is a typical Warpaint title, with a high-level written text on the F-117's origins, development, as well as upgrades the type went through over the years. Included are plenty of photos, some of which are drawn from previously classified sources and many from its operational history overseas. There are also the usual color profile illustrations covering the variety of the F-117's paint schemes, highlighting its diverse appearances beyond the traditional black RAM coating. A small detail section provides some close-up photos, with an additional short available kit section for modelers.
Overall, this is another useful title in the Warpaint Series. Their classic formula of covering the life of an aircraft, from development through operation, provides just enough textual information, with the photos and profile illustrations filling in gaps. If you’re looking for a good overview reference on the F-117, this one definitely fits the bill.