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In the early 1990s, the U.S Air Force launched a new program to build a next-generation advanced tactical fighter. This gave way to a legendary competition between Lockheed and the Northrop Corporation that created the outstanding YF-23. The aircraft had a radical design thanks to its diamond-shaped wings and V-tail, which immediately differentiated it from its competitor. The fighter reached supersonic speed and had been designed to fly undetected to enemy radars.
Even though it was a unique aircraft, the U.S Air Force selected its rival, the Lockheed F-22 Raptor. Many say the Raptor won because it was more agile, easier to maneuver, and could attack at a steeper angle. But in reality, Northrop’s issues with previous contracts and its poor standing with the Pentagon also gave Lockheed the upper hand.
The competition between both companies shows that a good reputation can sometimes be as important as a ground-breaking design or superior technical specifications.
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