The YF-23D

It represents a continuation of the YF-23 legacy, designed as an evolution that modernizes the aircraft while preserving its core stealth and speed capabilities. Although the original YF-23 lost to the F-22 in the ATF competition, advancements in stealth technology and renewed strategic demands led to the decision to further develop this unique fighter into the YF-23D.

Design & Enhancements:
The YF-23D retains the original design philosophy with its diamond wings, trapezoidal tail, and blended body, all crafted to minimize its radar cross-section while achieving high-speed and high-altitude capabilities. However, the YF-23D incorporates several key upgrades:
- Advanced Materials: New radar-absorbent coatings and materials further enhance stealth, allowing it to operate deep within hostile territory undetected.
- Upgraded Engines: While lacking thrust vectoring, the YF-23D features next-generation engines, granting it increased speed and range over its predecessor. These engines also contribute to its quiet operational profile, enabling it to slip into contested airspace unnoticed.
- Enhanced Avionics: Equipped with state-of-the-art radar, electronic warfare systems, and sensor fusion technology, the YF-23D can track multiple targets simultaneously while avoiding detection. Its avionics package is tailored for both air superiority and strike roles, allowing it to adapt quickly to changing mission profiles.

Role in Modern Warfare:
The YF-23D is highly valued for its stealth and multi-role flexibility, making it ideal for high-risk, long-range strike missions and air superiority in contested environments. It is particularly effective in denying enemy airspace, operating where defenses are thickest due to its low observability and high operational ceiling.

Operational History:
Since its introduction, the YF-23D has filled a critical niche in stealth operations, often deployed alongside or in support of conventional forces. Known for its ability to engage or evade threats at will, the YF-23D has a reputation as a "ghost" in the skies, able to reach targets others cannot. Its rarity and advanced capabilities make it a prized asset in high-stakes scenarios where stealth and speed are paramount.

Features:
• one of my favorite aircraft out there
• AMERICA!!!
• honestly I thought this wouldn't fly but when it's designed like the real one that flew it actually does
• 6 Long Range Interceptor missiles
• 4 Short Range IR Guided missiles
• 4 50KG dumb bombs

That's all enjoy rewriting history my friends ;)

Also thanks everyone for taking me to 5k points, cheerio