Explore the capabilities of the F-117 Nighthawk, the worlds first operational stealth aircraft. Discover whether the F-117 could carry missiles and examine its design features, payload capacity, and combat history. Learn about the aircrafts air-to-ground missiles, precision-guided munitions, and advanced avionics. Uncover the truth about the F-117s missile-carrying abilities.
The F-117 Nighthawk, also known as the "Stealth Fighter," is a single-seat, twin-engine, fifth-generation multirole fighter aircraft developed by Lockheed Skunk Works. While the F-117 is primarily designed for ground attack missions, it is capable of carrying missiles, but with certain limitations.
Design and Development

The F-117 was designed to be a stealthy, low-observable aircraft, with a reduced radar cross-section (RCS) to evade enemy detection. Its unique faceted design, combined with radar-absorbent materials, allows it to penetrate deep into enemy territory undetected. However, this design also imposes certain limitations on the aircraft's payload capacity and missile carrying capabilities.
Payload Capacity
The F-117 has a relatively small payload capacity compared to other fighter aircraft. Its internal bay can carry up to 5,000 pounds (2,268 kilograms) of ordnance, which is significantly less than other multirole fighters like the F-15E or F-18. This limited payload capacity restricts the types and numbers of missiles that can be carried.
Missile Carrying Capabilities

The F-117 is capable of carrying a variety of missiles, including:
- AGM-65 Maverick: A air-to-ground missile used for precision strikes against armored targets.
- AGM-88 High-Speed Anti-Radiation Missile (HARM): A missile designed to attack and destroy enemy air defense systems.
- AGM-130: A precision-guided missile used for striking high-value targets.
However, the F-117 is not designed to carry air-to-air missiles, such as the AIM-120 AMRAAM or AIM-9 Sidewinder. Its primary role is ground attack, and its missile carrying capabilities are focused on this mission.
Limitations and Challenges
While the F-117 can carry missiles, there are certain limitations and challenges associated with its design. The aircraft's internal bay is relatively small, which restricts the size and number of missiles that can be carried. Additionally, the F-117's stealth design requires that all ordnance be carried internally, which further limits its payload capacity.
Furthermore, the F-117's advanced avionics and radar systems are designed to support ground attack missions, rather than air-to-air combat. As a result, the aircraft is not well-suited for dogfighting or engaging enemy fighters.
Operational History

The F-117 has seen combat in several conflicts, including the Gulf War, Kosovo War, and Operation Iraqi Freedom. In these conflicts, the aircraft has proven itself to be an effective ground attack platform, using its precision-guided munitions to strike high-value targets.
However, the F-117 has not been used extensively in air-to-air combat, and its missile carrying capabilities have been limited to ground attack missions.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while the F-117 Nighthawk can carry missiles, its design and development impose certain limitations on its payload capacity and missile carrying capabilities. The aircraft is primarily designed for ground attack missions, and its advanced avionics and radar systems are focused on supporting this role.
F-117 Image Gallery









