Stealth fighter jets such as the F-22 Raptor adapt their tactics to evade long-range radar systems.

The F-22 Raptor is the first operational fifth-generation stealth fighter jet designed to evade radar detection systems. Its aerodynamic architecture, geometric shape, and radar-absorbing materials (RAM) are designed to drastically reduce its radar cross section (RCS). However, the proliferation of long-wave radars, operating in the VHF and UHF bands, is challenging the effectiveness of this stealth technology.

These radars use wavelengths ranging from 1 meter to over 10 meters, capable of detecting objects of the same order of magnitude. This poses a challenge to stealth technologies based on the reflection and absorption of centimeter waves. Strategies to reduce the signature of a stealth fighter jet when faced with these sensors require constant technological and tactical adaptations.

The article analyzes the detection mitigation techniques used by stealth fighters such as the F-22, the evolution of radar threats, and the real limits of invisibility in contested environments.

Stealth designed for shortwave radars

Stealth fighter jets such as the F-22 Raptor were developed in the 1990s to evade radars using centimeter-wave (X, C, and S bands). These radars are generally used for direct engagement, tracking, and missile guidance. Reducing the frontal SER of the F-22 to an estimated value of between 0.0001 and 0.001 square meters in these bands makes it virtually undetectable at distances of less than 30 to 50 km in the best case scenario.

The F-22’s airframe is designed with angular shapes, an internal weapons bay, and a multi-layer absorbent coating. The orientation of the air intakes and leading edges is calculated to reduce energy reflection angles. This design remains effective against high-frequency radars, but loses effectiveness when the wavelength becomes close to the size of the aircraft.

A growing challenge from VHF and UHF radars

Modern defense systems, such as the Russian 55Zh6U Nebo-M and Chinese YLC-8B radars, operate in the VHF (30-300 MHz) and UHF (300-1000 MHz) bands. These frequencies, with wavelengths of up to 10 meters, are capable of detecting stealth fighters at distances sometimes exceeding 150 km, although angular accuracy remains low.

The resonance effect between the radar wave and the airframe of a fighter jet such as the F-22 increases radar reflection. In practical terms, this means that the F-22 can be “seen” but not identified or tracked with precision. However, this information is sufficient to direct secondary sensors or guide missiles with an X-band terminal radar.

The capabilities of VHF radars have been enhanced by the use of active phased array (AESA) networks even at low frequencies, improving volumetric detection and jamming resistance. The integration of passive systems (ELINT sensors, optronics) complements this coverage and threatens the freedom of action of stealth aircraft.

Appropriate technical and tactical countermeasures

To limit the effects of long-wave radars, strategies rely on three levers: altitude, trajectory, and speed. Stealth fighter aircraft often fly at very high altitudes to reduce the angle of detection. By adjusting their approach geometry, pilots minimize exposed surfaces. Indirect or low-infrared-signature trajectories are planned to bypass radar volumes.

Technically, some stealth fighters such as the F-22 Raptor adjust their RCS according to their orientation using active surfaces. Special RAM materials absorb long waves better, but at the cost of reduced service life or increased maintenance. Other solutions include on-board VHF/UHF jamming, although this is limited against broadband radars.

Finally, stealth remains one component among many: it is combined with data fusion capabilities, real-time tactical sharing, and coordination with decoy drones. The goal is to disrupt the enemy’s firing chain rather than guarantee absolute invisibility.

An ongoing technological race between radar and stealth

Stealth is not a guarantee of invisibility, but a reduction in the risk of detection, identification, and pursuit. The widespread deployment of multi-band radars, interconnected sensor networks, and artificial intelligence is making operational environments increasingly complex for stealth fighter jets.

To respond to this, Western air forces are focusing on active signature reduction, adaptive electronic warfare, and collaborative battlefield management. The successor to the F-22, developed under the NGAD program, is expected to incorporate broad spectral stealth, laser communications, and a single operator controlling multiple networked drones.

The tactical advantage of stealth fighter jets now lies as much in information synchronization as in the shape of the airframe. Technology alone is no longer enough to guarantee air superiority. The effectiveness of the F-22 Raptor in the years to come will depend on its ability to integrate into a multi-domain combat system rather than on its radar signature alone.

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