It also is the result of extensive experience with earlier generations of low observable technology (including the SR-71, the F-117 fighter, and the advanced cruise missile).

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Second, building large, complex aircraft like bombers -- particularly those featuring sophisticated low observable technology -- from a cold and dissipated industrial base invites significant, costly operational problems with the finished planes.

CENTERFORSECURITYPOLICY: Center For Security Policy

Special attention was given to charges found in recent, sharply critical reports by "60 Minutes" and the General Accounting Office. (1) Each contention concerning such issues as the uncertainties involved in "low observable" technologies, the B-2 test program, the pace of production, the susceptibility to countermeasures and the maintainability of stealthy aircraft was addressed in turn by the participants.

CENTERFORSECURITYPOLICY: Roundtable Discussion On The B-2 Bomber

Stealth, also known as low-observable technology, enables warfighters to mask their weapons from detection by enemy sensors.

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And perhaps most importantly, its low-observable characteristics will allow it to reach intended targets without fear of interception.

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Its defining characteristic is the low-observable, or stealth, features that make it nearly impossible to track or target using conventional radar or heat-seeking missiles.

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