The Boeing X-32 Stealth Fighter’s Flight to Failure

The Boeing X-32 Stealth Fighter’s Flight to Failure

Key Points and Summary – Boeing’s X-32 lost the Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) contract to Lockheed’s X-35 (the future F-35) due to “fatal design compromises” driven by an overemphasis on “affordability.” While innovative, the X-32’s design had key weaknesses: its “gaping” chin-mounted air intake “impeded stealth” by exposing the engine to radar. Boeing F-32 or X-32 Fighter Artist Rendition: Image Creator: Adam Burch/hangar-b.com. Boeing X-32 Fighte…