The F-117 Nighthawk is a stealth attack aircraft developed by the United States Air Force. It was designed to evade radar detection, allowing it to conduct precision strikes on high-value targets. The aircraft first flew in 1981 and was officially introduced into service in 1983. With its unique angular shape and dark matte finish, the F-117 minimizes its radar cross-section. It played a significant role during the Gulf War, where it successfully carried out missions without being detected, showcasing the effectiveness of stealth technology in modern warfare.