[wrp]

Absolutely true that the faceted shape was due to computational limits at the time. There is a book detailing the development process for the shape of the F-117, but I can't remember the title. Anybody?

Anyway, the basic principle of stealth design is not what people intuitively think. As I recall, it has more to do with refraction along edges than reflection from surfaces. It was originally figured out by some Russian guy. I think that story was also in the book I can't remember.

[morkalork]

Skunk Works by Ben Rich? Haven't read it yet though so can't confirm.

[hunter-gatherer]

I've read it and this is the book. It tlis a fascinating read and I recommend it.

[adamc]

Yes. I read it based on a recommendation on HN, and it was very interesting. Not as good as "The Soul of A New Machine", but still quite worthwhile.

[grogenaut]

I actually liked it better because they produced multiple successes in skunk works. Soul of a new machine feels like they burned out making a middle of the road product.

[adamc]

I think we are evaluating on different criteria. Soul of a New Machine is a much better written book.

[wrp]

The Ben Rich book is good, but the one I was thinking of, which covers technical details of stealth technology, is Peter Westwick (2020) Stealth: The Secret Contest to Invent Invisible Aircraft. It is really very good.