For years I have wondered; why did the military designate the F-117 F-117 instead of B-117? This aircraft is obviously a bomber; if they made it a fighter, even some old WWII aircraft would definitely outmatch it! Anyway, anyone got some info on the reason for this mis-designation?
There’s been extensive discussion on this very topic and why the “F” was chosen over a more appropriate “A” or even “B” designation. Try a search to see what comes up.
Bri~
the few -117 pilots Ive talked have said that the -117 handles very well if a little touchy (Ive been told that no one -117 flies like another -117) but Id think twice before suggesting that a WWII fighter could tangle with it. Had the -117 air to air capabilities Id give it a fighting chance easly. as for the designation…
http://www.finescale.com/fsm/community/forum/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=17010
this should awnser your questions
I lean toward the theory that the F-117 designation was chosen to trick spies and other snoops into thinking it was an old (pre-F-4, F-5, F-14, F-15, etc.), discontinued fighter project.