What does it mean for a combat airplane to be "stealthy," and what are two main ways designers try to hide an aircraft from enemy radar?
For a combat airplane to be "stealthy" means it is designed to be very difficult, though not impossible, for enemy detection systems—especially radar
What's the main difference between a dogfight (close-range combat) and a Beyond Visual Range (BVR) engagement, and which type of combat is more common today?
A dogfight is close-range air combat, where pilots maneuver their aircraft aggressively to get behind the enemy.
How does the use of an afterburner change the performance of a jet engine, and what is the big trade-off (disadvantage) of using it?
An afterburner provides a massive, but temporary, increase in engine thrust (power).The big trade-off (disadvantage): The huge trade-off is fuel consumption.
Can you explain the basic function of a fighter jet's radar system? How does it help the pilot find and track a target?
A fighter jet's radar system works by transmitting powerful radio waves. How it helps the pilot: By measuring the time it takes for the echo to return.
What is the difference between a fighter jet (like the F-22) and a bomber (like the B-2)
A fighter jet (like the F-22 Raptor) is designed to shoot down enemy aircraft. A bomber (like the B-2 Spirit) is designed to carry a very large payload of bombs
Besides air-to-air missiles, what other types of weapons do combat airplanes carry, and what is each weapon designed to attack?
Air-to-Ground Missiles (AGM), Guided/Smart Bombs, Unguided/Iron Bombs, Anti-Radiation Missiles, Guns/Cannons
Some modern jets have thrust vectoring. How does this technology help the pilot maneuver the aircraft better, especially at low speeds?
Thrust vectoring is a system where the jet's engine nozzle (where the exhaust comes out) can change direction by a few degrees.
What are the most important systems in a fighter jet designed specifically to ensure the pilot's safety during a high-speed flight or an emergency?
Ejection Seat, Oxygen System. G-Suit,
Why is air-to-air refueling such an essential capability for modern military operations, and what limitation does it help overcome?
Air-to-air refueling is essential because it allows combat aircraft to extend their range and endurance (time in the air).
Choose two famous combat airplanes from the Cold War era
Mig-21, F-4 phantom,
