Boeing Spends $67M on Stealth Tech Demonstrator

Boeing spent $67 million of its own money on the YF-118G Bird of Prey, a stealth technology demonstrator that made just 38 test flights between 1996 and 1999. The aircraft was developed using computerized design techniques and 'virtual reality' tools to reduce costs and increase efficiency.

The Bird of Prey's unique design featured tiny wings and an unusual beak-like nose, which helped it blend into its surroundings and evade radar detection. Its control surfaces were designed without gaps or protruding features that could produce radar reflections.

Despite its unusual appearance, the aircraft was not built to be fast, with a cruising speed of around 300 mph and an operational ceiling of approximately 20,000 feet. Its purpose was to explore how an aircraft could remain difficult to detect while still being aerodynamically efficient.