Stealth aircraft are designed to avoid detection using stealth technology, which reduces the reflection/emission of radar, infrared, visible light, radio frequency spectrum, and audio. The F-117 Nighthawk was the first operational stealth aircraft. Other notable examples include the B-2 Spirit, B-21 Raider, F-22 Raptor, F-35 Lightning II, Chengdu J-20, and Sukhoi Su-57. As of December 2020, the combat-ready stealth aircraft in service include the Northrop Grumman B-2 Spirit, Lockheed Martin F-22 Raptor, Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II, Chengdu J-20, and Sukhoi Su-57, with various countries developing their own design.
Stealth bombers are specialized stealth aircraft designed specifically for bombing missions. They utilize stealth technology to evade radar detection and enemy defense, allowing them to penetrate heavily defended airspace and deliver payloads. The most well-known stealth bomber in service is the Northrop Grumman B-2 Spirit, which has been operational since 1997. Another upcoming stealth bomber is the B-21 Raider, which is being developed as a part of the U.S. Air Force's Long Range Strike Bomber program.
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