Source: Michael Schratt youtube
In this episode, Peter Merlin continues with his comments on the A-12 Avenger II program. Also to be covered are the following topics: YF-24, Col. Joseph Lanni, classified patches, YF-22/YF-23 fly-off.
Michael Schratt (private pilot/military aerospace historian) has lectured across the country on the unique subject of "Mystery Aircraft", and classified propulsion systems buried deep within the military-industrial complex.
To expose government fraud, waste, and abuse, Michael devotes much of his free time to researching aerospace technical documents, conducting interviews, and traveling to multiple University archives.
As a concerned citizen, he believes that our Constitutional obligation is to question authority and demand an accounting of special access programs that bypass congressional oversight and public scrutiny.
Showing posts with label Peter Merlin. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Peter Merlin. Show all posts
Peter Merlin | Area 51 Exposed (Part Three) | Michael Schratt | May 15, 2025
Source: Michael Schratt youtube
Description:
Description:
In Part 3 of this series, Peter Merlin covers the following topics: Have Blue, F-117 crash, historical archives, unknown projects, Constant Peg, Tacit Blue, $22.4 Billion spent on Northrop B-2 Stealth Bomber R&D funding, A-12 Avenger II.
Michael Schratt (private pilot/military aerospace historian) has lectured across the country on the unique subject of "Mystery Aircraft", and classified propulsion systems buried deep within the military-industrial complex.
To expose government fraud, waste, and abuse, Michael devotes much of his free time to researching aerospace technical documents, conducting interviews, and traveling to multiple University archives.
As a concerned citizen, he believes that our Constitutional obligation is to question authority and demand an accounting of special access programs that bypass congressional oversight and public scrutiny.
Michael Schratt (private pilot/military aerospace historian) has lectured across the country on the unique subject of "Mystery Aircraft", and classified propulsion systems buried deep within the military-industrial complex.
To expose government fraud, waste, and abuse, Michael devotes much of his free time to researching aerospace technical documents, conducting interviews, and traveling to multiple University archives.
As a concerned citizen, he believes that our Constitutional obligation is to question authority and demand an accounting of special access programs that bypass congressional oversight and public scrutiny.
Peter Merlin | Area 51 Exposed (Part Two) | Michael Schratt | May 7, 2025
Source: Michael Schratt youtube
Description:
Part two of this detailed and informative interview, Michael Schratt talks to Aviation Archaeologist and Area 51 expert Peter Merlin on the true history of the remote test site in Nevada.
In this installment, Peter Merlin highlights the following topics: Classified demonstrator flown by Test pilot Frank Birk. Northrop B-2 Stealth Bomber. Air Force Plant 42.
---
Below is a summary of the YouTube video "Area 51 Exposed (Part Two)" based on the provided transcript. The takeaways highlight main arguments, actionable insights, and crucial statistics related to classified aerospace programs, particularly the B-2 Stealth Bomber, and other secretive projects.
Description:
Part two of this detailed and informative interview, Michael Schratt talks to Aviation Archaeologist and Area 51 expert Peter Merlin on the true history of the remote test site in Nevada.
In this installment, Peter Merlin highlights the following topics: Classified demonstrator flown by Test pilot Frank Birk. Northrop B-2 Stealth Bomber. Air Force Plant 42.
---
Below is a summary of the YouTube video "Area 51 Exposed (Part Two)" based on the provided transcript. The takeaways highlight main arguments, actionable insights, and crucial statistics related to classified aerospace programs, particularly the B-2 Stealth Bomber, and other secretive projects.
Key Takeaways from "Area 51 Exposed (Part Two)"
• Advanced Aeronautics Company (1984–1988): Lockheed, McDonnell Douglas, and Boeing formed a temporary independent company, the Advanced Aeronautics Company, between 1984 and 1988.
• Evidence of Existence: The Advanced Aeronautics Company is documented in an LA Times article, though its purpose remains unclear.
• Classified Programs in the 1980s: The 1980s saw numerous classified aerospace programs with limited public information.
1983 Classified Demonstrator: A classified advanced technology demonstrator was flown in 1983, piloted by Major Frank Burke.
• Demonstrator Details Unknown: No details on the 1983 demonstrator’s builder, configuration, or purpose are publicly available.
• Tacit Blue Declassification (1996): The Tacit Blue stealth demonstrator was declassified around May 1996, coinciding with an Aviation Week article.
• B-2 Subscale Prototype Rumors: Aviation Week (May 6, 1996) suggested a possible B-2 subscale prototype, though Northrop officials denied a direct prototype.
• Tacit Blue Connection: The 1996 article likely referred to Tacit Blue, but other secret programs may have existed.
• Cryptic Industry Comments: Aerospace industry officials often make vague references to classified projects, hinting at undisclosed programs.
• Lockheed’s X-56 Program: Lockheed Martin’s Skunk Works developed the X-56 to study wing flutter, revealing past classified programs affected by flutter issues.
• Skunk Works Timeline: Lockheed’s project timeline includes undisclosed aircraft (marked as skunks) from the 1980s to 1990s.
• Northrop’s B-2 Subscale Prototype: No concrete evidence supports claims of a Northrop-built subscale B-2 prototype, despite rumors.
• B-2 Original Design (Pre-1983): The B-2 was initially studied as either a low-altitude or high-altitude penetrator.
• Low-Altitude Configuration: The low-altitude B-2 design was a sharp flying triangle.
• High-Altitude Configuration: The high-altitude design resembled the final B-2 but lacked multiple trailing edge points.
• 1983 Wing Redesign: Northrop redesigned the B-2’s wing in 1983 to address bending moments, flutter, and structural issues.
• Redesign Cost: The 1983 B-2 redesign cost taxpayers $1 billion.
• Redesign Benefits: The new design added structural strength and maintained stealth characteristics.
• B-2 Cost Escalation: The B-2’s unit cost rose to $2.3 billion due to reduced orders and high development costs.
• Order Reduction: The B-2 order was cut from 132 to 21 aircraft, significantly increasing per-unit costs.
• Development Cost Impact: Spreading development costs over fewer airframes caused the B-2’s high unit cost.
• B-2 vs. Gold: At $2.3 billion, a B-2 costs more than its weight in gold.
• B-2 Subassembly Plant (Pico Rivera): Northrop built the cockpit, center body, and stealthy edges at Pico Rivera.
• Other Contractors: LTV and Boeing built the weapons bay and wing structures; GE supplied engines.
• Radar Development: Hughes developed the B-2’s low-probability-of-intercept radar.
• B-2 Crash in Guam (2008): A B-2 crashed during takeoff in Guam due to moisture in pitot sensors, resulting in a total write-off.
• Guam Crash Aftermath: The crashed B-2 was shredded after investigation due to extensive composite material damage.
• B-2 Repair Incident: Another B-2 was damaged in Guam, repaired temporarily, and overhauled in the U.S.
• Current B-2 Fleet: The B-2 fleet now consists of 20 aircraft after the Guam crash.
• Test Airframe Conversion: The 21st B-2 was a test airframe converted to operational status.
• Air Force Plant 42 Overview: Plant 42 in Palmdale is a government-owned, contractor-operated facility for manufacturing and testing.
• Plant 42 Management: It is controlled by the Air Force Test Center at Edwards AFB.
• Lockheed at Plant 42: Lockheed Martin operates Sites 1 and 2, handling U-2 overhauls and Skunk Works prototypes.
• Skunk Works Projects: Lockheed’s Site 1 developed hybrid airships, the P-175 (RQ-170 precursor), and other unmanned vehicles.
• Northrop at Plant 42: Northrop operates Site 4, working on the X-47B, B-2, and likely the B-21.
• NASA at Plant 42: NASA leases Site 9 for airborne science, including DC-8, SOFIA, and ER-2 aircraft.
• Rockwell’s Past Role: Rockwell International built B-1Bs at Site 9 (now NASA’s) until Boeing acquired it.
• Boeing’s Facility: Boeing maintains a facility for space shuttle modifications, though activity has declined post-shuttle retirement.
• B-2 Rollout (1988): The B-2 was unveiled on November 22, 1988, at Plant 42, orchestrated to limit visibility of sensitive areas.
• Security Failure at Rollout: Aviation Week photographed the B-2 from above during rollout, exposing the exhaust deck.
• B-2 as Paperless Airplane: The B-2 was the first aircraft designed using a paperless CAD system called ENCAD.
• ENCAD System: Northrop developed ENCAD with 400 workstations and mainframe computers for B-2 design.
• ENCAD Fate: The fate of ENCAD equipment is unknown, likely destroyed or repurposed.
• Data Destruction: Much of the B-2 and YF-23 documentation was shredded due to high costs of maintaining classified materials.
• YF-23 Loss: Over 10 pallets of YF-23 documentation were destroyed, erasing significant program history.
• Classified Material Challenges: Maintaining classified materials is costly, leading to frequent destruction.
• Lockheed’s Storage Practices: Lockheed historically avoided marking documents as classified to reduce attention, per Kelly Johnson’s system.
• F-117 Program Impact: Air Force inspections during the F-117 program forced Lockheed to mark and store materials, leading to shredding of non-essential documents.
• Unknown Lockheed Designs: Blueprints and conceptual artwork for unacknowledged Lockheed programs may be stored in vaults or destroyed.
• Historical Loss: The destruction of classified aerospace documentation represents a significant loss of national history.
Actionable Insights
• Research Classified Programs: Use resources like Aviation Week archives or declassified documents to uncover hints about programs like the 1983 demonstrator or Advanced Aeronautics Company.
• Monitor Industry Comments: Pay attention to cryptic statements from aerospace officials, as they may hint at undisclosed projects.
• Advocate for Historical Preservation: Push for better archiving of classified aerospace data to prevent loss of technological history.
• Study Plant 42 Operations: Investigate contractor activities at Air Force Plant 42 for insights into ongoing classified projects like the B-21.
• Track Declassification Trends: Monitor declassification events (e.g., Tacit Blue in 1996) to anticipate future disclosures of stealth programs.
Main Arguments
• Secrecy in Aerospace: The aerospace industry operates with high secrecy, with many programs (e.g., 1983 demonstrator, Advanced Aeronautics Company) leaving minimal public traces.
• B-2 Cost Drivers: The B-2’s astronomical cost stemmed from reduced orders and high development expenses, exacerbated by the 1983 redesign.
• Data Destruction: The routine destruction of classified materials, as seen with the B-2 and YF-23, erases valuable technological history.
• Security Oversights: Even tightly controlled events like the B-2 rollout can be compromised, as shown by Aviation Week’s aerial photography.
• Ongoing Innovation: Facilities like Air Force Plant 42 and Lockheed’s Skunk Works continue to develop cutting-edge, often classified, aerospace technologies.
Crucial Statistics
• Advanced Aeronautics Company Duration: Operated from 1984 to 1988.
• B-2 Redesign Cost (1983): $1 billion.
• B-2 Unit Cost: $2.3 billion per aircraft.
• B-2 Order Reduction: From 132 to 21 aircraft.
• Current B-2 Fleet: 20 aircraft after the Guam crash.
• ENCAD Workstations: 400 used for B-2 design.
• YF-23 Documentation Destroyed: Over 10 pallets shredded.
This summary captures the core discussions from the transcript, focusing on secretive aerospace programs, the B-2’s development challenges, and the loss of historical data due to classification practices.
• Advanced Aeronautics Company (1984–1988): Lockheed, McDonnell Douglas, and Boeing formed a temporary independent company, the Advanced Aeronautics Company, between 1984 and 1988.
• Evidence of Existence: The Advanced Aeronautics Company is documented in an LA Times article, though its purpose remains unclear.
• Classified Programs in the 1980s: The 1980s saw numerous classified aerospace programs with limited public information.
1983 Classified Demonstrator: A classified advanced technology demonstrator was flown in 1983, piloted by Major Frank Burke.
• Demonstrator Details Unknown: No details on the 1983 demonstrator’s builder, configuration, or purpose are publicly available.
• Tacit Blue Declassification (1996): The Tacit Blue stealth demonstrator was declassified around May 1996, coinciding with an Aviation Week article.
• B-2 Subscale Prototype Rumors: Aviation Week (May 6, 1996) suggested a possible B-2 subscale prototype, though Northrop officials denied a direct prototype.
• Tacit Blue Connection: The 1996 article likely referred to Tacit Blue, but other secret programs may have existed.
• Cryptic Industry Comments: Aerospace industry officials often make vague references to classified projects, hinting at undisclosed programs.
• Lockheed’s X-56 Program: Lockheed Martin’s Skunk Works developed the X-56 to study wing flutter, revealing past classified programs affected by flutter issues.
• Skunk Works Timeline: Lockheed’s project timeline includes undisclosed aircraft (marked as skunks) from the 1980s to 1990s.
• Northrop’s B-2 Subscale Prototype: No concrete evidence supports claims of a Northrop-built subscale B-2 prototype, despite rumors.
• B-2 Original Design (Pre-1983): The B-2 was initially studied as either a low-altitude or high-altitude penetrator.
• Low-Altitude Configuration: The low-altitude B-2 design was a sharp flying triangle.
• High-Altitude Configuration: The high-altitude design resembled the final B-2 but lacked multiple trailing edge points.
• 1983 Wing Redesign: Northrop redesigned the B-2’s wing in 1983 to address bending moments, flutter, and structural issues.
• Redesign Cost: The 1983 B-2 redesign cost taxpayers $1 billion.
• Redesign Benefits: The new design added structural strength and maintained stealth characteristics.
• B-2 Cost Escalation: The B-2’s unit cost rose to $2.3 billion due to reduced orders and high development costs.
• Order Reduction: The B-2 order was cut from 132 to 21 aircraft, significantly increasing per-unit costs.
• Development Cost Impact: Spreading development costs over fewer airframes caused the B-2’s high unit cost.
• B-2 vs. Gold: At $2.3 billion, a B-2 costs more than its weight in gold.
• B-2 Subassembly Plant (Pico Rivera): Northrop built the cockpit, center body, and stealthy edges at Pico Rivera.
• Other Contractors: LTV and Boeing built the weapons bay and wing structures; GE supplied engines.
• Radar Development: Hughes developed the B-2’s low-probability-of-intercept radar.
• B-2 Crash in Guam (2008): A B-2 crashed during takeoff in Guam due to moisture in pitot sensors, resulting in a total write-off.
• Guam Crash Aftermath: The crashed B-2 was shredded after investigation due to extensive composite material damage.
• B-2 Repair Incident: Another B-2 was damaged in Guam, repaired temporarily, and overhauled in the U.S.
• Current B-2 Fleet: The B-2 fleet now consists of 20 aircraft after the Guam crash.
• Test Airframe Conversion: The 21st B-2 was a test airframe converted to operational status.
• Air Force Plant 42 Overview: Plant 42 in Palmdale is a government-owned, contractor-operated facility for manufacturing and testing.
• Plant 42 Management: It is controlled by the Air Force Test Center at Edwards AFB.
• Lockheed at Plant 42: Lockheed Martin operates Sites 1 and 2, handling U-2 overhauls and Skunk Works prototypes.
• Skunk Works Projects: Lockheed’s Site 1 developed hybrid airships, the P-175 (RQ-170 precursor), and other unmanned vehicles.
• Northrop at Plant 42: Northrop operates Site 4, working on the X-47B, B-2, and likely the B-21.
• NASA at Plant 42: NASA leases Site 9 for airborne science, including DC-8, SOFIA, and ER-2 aircraft.
• Rockwell’s Past Role: Rockwell International built B-1Bs at Site 9 (now NASA’s) until Boeing acquired it.
• Boeing’s Facility: Boeing maintains a facility for space shuttle modifications, though activity has declined post-shuttle retirement.
• B-2 Rollout (1988): The B-2 was unveiled on November 22, 1988, at Plant 42, orchestrated to limit visibility of sensitive areas.
• Security Failure at Rollout: Aviation Week photographed the B-2 from above during rollout, exposing the exhaust deck.
• B-2 as Paperless Airplane: The B-2 was the first aircraft designed using a paperless CAD system called ENCAD.
• ENCAD System: Northrop developed ENCAD with 400 workstations and mainframe computers for B-2 design.
• ENCAD Fate: The fate of ENCAD equipment is unknown, likely destroyed or repurposed.
• Data Destruction: Much of the B-2 and YF-23 documentation was shredded due to high costs of maintaining classified materials.
• YF-23 Loss: Over 10 pallets of YF-23 documentation were destroyed, erasing significant program history.
• Classified Material Challenges: Maintaining classified materials is costly, leading to frequent destruction.
• Lockheed’s Storage Practices: Lockheed historically avoided marking documents as classified to reduce attention, per Kelly Johnson’s system.
• F-117 Program Impact: Air Force inspections during the F-117 program forced Lockheed to mark and store materials, leading to shredding of non-essential documents.
• Unknown Lockheed Designs: Blueprints and conceptual artwork for unacknowledged Lockheed programs may be stored in vaults or destroyed.
• Historical Loss: The destruction of classified aerospace documentation represents a significant loss of national history.
Actionable Insights
• Research Classified Programs: Use resources like Aviation Week archives or declassified documents to uncover hints about programs like the 1983 demonstrator or Advanced Aeronautics Company.
• Monitor Industry Comments: Pay attention to cryptic statements from aerospace officials, as they may hint at undisclosed projects.
• Advocate for Historical Preservation: Push for better archiving of classified aerospace data to prevent loss of technological history.
• Study Plant 42 Operations: Investigate contractor activities at Air Force Plant 42 for insights into ongoing classified projects like the B-21.
• Track Declassification Trends: Monitor declassification events (e.g., Tacit Blue in 1996) to anticipate future disclosures of stealth programs.
Main Arguments
• Secrecy in Aerospace: The aerospace industry operates with high secrecy, with many programs (e.g., 1983 demonstrator, Advanced Aeronautics Company) leaving minimal public traces.
• B-2 Cost Drivers: The B-2’s astronomical cost stemmed from reduced orders and high development expenses, exacerbated by the 1983 redesign.
• Data Destruction: The routine destruction of classified materials, as seen with the B-2 and YF-23, erases valuable technological history.
• Security Oversights: Even tightly controlled events like the B-2 rollout can be compromised, as shown by Aviation Week’s aerial photography.
• Ongoing Innovation: Facilities like Air Force Plant 42 and Lockheed’s Skunk Works continue to develop cutting-edge, often classified, aerospace technologies.
Crucial Statistics
• Advanced Aeronautics Company Duration: Operated from 1984 to 1988.
• B-2 Redesign Cost (1983): $1 billion.
• B-2 Unit Cost: $2.3 billion per aircraft.
• B-2 Order Reduction: From 132 to 21 aircraft.
• Current B-2 Fleet: 20 aircraft after the Guam crash.
• ENCAD Workstations: 400 used for B-2 design.
• YF-23 Documentation Destroyed: Over 10 pallets shredded.
This summary captures the core discussions from the transcript, focusing on secretive aerospace programs, the B-2’s development challenges, and the loss of historical data due to classification practices.
Peter Merlin | Area 51 Exposed (Part One) | Michael Schratt | May 4, 2025
Source: Michael Schratt youtube
Description:
In Part 1 of this detailed and informative interview, Michael Schratt talks to Aviation Archaeologist and Area 51 expert Peter Merlin on the true history of the remote test site in Nevada.
Topics to be included: U-2 Spyplane, A-12, SR-71, Have Blue, Tacit Blue, F-117, Dyson's Dock, "Sam's Place", burn pits at Area 51, and much more.
Strap in and prepare yourself for a non-holds-barred interview with the world's expert on the topic (also see Peter Merlin's new book DREAMLAND). ___ Below is a summary of the YouTube video "Area 51 Exposed (Part One)" based on the provided transcript. The transcript features an interview with Peter Merlin, an aviation and aerospace historian, discussing his background, the Lockheed Have Blue program, stealth technology development, and related black programs. The takeaways highlight main arguments, actionable insights, and crucial details, with a focus on clarity and conciseness.
Takeaways from "Area 51 Exposed (Part One)"
• Interview Date and Guest: The interview was conducted on March 6, 2016, with Peter Merlin, an aviation and aerospace historian.
• Merlin’s Background: Merlin has been interested in aviation and space since childhood, sparked by watching Apollo launches.
• Educational Path: He graduated from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University with a degree in aeronautical studies and management in 1987.
• Career Shift: Due to an aerospace industry downturn in 1987, Merlin worked for a commuter airline for 10 years.
• Freelance Journalism: Merlin became a freelance journalist, writing aviation and space stories, which launched his writing career.
• Lockheed Have Blue Program: The Have Blue program was a pioneering effort in stealth technology to reduce radar, infrared, and acoustic signatures.
• Stealth Definition: Stealth technology aims to make aircraft less detectable by minimizing radar cross-section and other signatures.
• DARPA and Air Force Involvement: In the mid-1970s, DARPA and the Air Force explored stealth for tactical aircraft.
• Project Harvey: Initial stealth studies were conducted under Project Harvey, involving major aerospace companies.
• Lockheed’s Exclusion: Lockheed was initially excluded from Project Harvey due to no recent tactical aircraft production.
• Lockheed’s Secret Expertise: Lockheed had extensive, classified experience with low observables from the A-12 Blackbird program.
• A-12 Blackbird: Developed in the 1960s, the A-12 was designed for high speed, high altitude, and reduced radar detection.
• Kelly Johnson’s Role: Lockheed’s Kelly Johnson faced challenges balancing stealth and performance in the A-12 design.
• D-21 Drone: The D-21, a Mach 3 drone, had the lowest radar cross-section of its time, showcasing Lockheed’s stealth expertise.
• Lockheed Joins Harvey: Lockheed gained entry to Project Harvey after declassifying some A-12 data, funded by their own resources.
• Initial Design: Lockheed’s early stealth design resembled the D-21 but removed the vertical tail and intake for stealth.
• Faceting Technique: Lockheed adopted faceting—using flat plates—to enhance stealth, inspired by a Russian study.
• Echo One Software: Dennis Overholzer’s Echo One program calculated radar cross-sections for faceted shapes.
• Hopeless Diamond: The faceted “Hopeless Diamond” design was nearly invisible to radar but aerodynamically challenging.
• Aerodynamic Trade-offs: Faceting conflicted with traditional aerodynamic principles, prioritizing stealth over flight performance.
• XST Development: The Experimental Survivable Testbed (XST) turned the Hopeless Diamond into a flyable aircraft.
• Fly-by-Wire System: The XST required an analog fly-by-wire system due to its inherent instability.
• Vertical Fins: Inward-canted vertical fins were added to the XST to minimize radar reflection.
• Have Blue Prototypes: Two small Have Blue prototypes were built as technology demonstrators, not operational aircraft.
• Northrop’s XST: Northrop competed with a faceted XST design but lost to Lockheed due to higher radar cross-section.
• Northrop’s Future Role: The Air Force encouraged Northrop to stay involved, leading to the B-2 stealth bomber.
• First Have Blue Purpose: The first prototype tested handling qualities to ensure basic flight capability.
• Angular Design: Have Blue’s wings lacked traditional airfoils, designed by electrical engineers for stealth.
• Revolutionary Design Process: Stealth was the primary design goal, with flight performance secondary.
• Pentagon’s Low Observable Office: A small Pentagon team in the 1970s studied stealth under the Senior High program.
• Team Members: The team included Jerry Babber, Dave England, Joe Ralston, and Robert Bond.
• Senior High Program: This program covered all stealth aircraft development, including Have Blue and beyond.
• Stealth Cruise Missile: The team explored stealthy cruise missiles for penetrating defended airspace.
• F-117A Origins: Have Blue’s success led to the F-117A, a stealth tactical bomber, not a fighter.
• F-117A Role: Designed to slip through defenses and strike targets with minimal detection.
• Desert Storm Success: The F-117A proved its stealth capabilities in Operation Desert Storm.
• Senior Trend Program: The F-117A was developed under the Senior Trend program, tested at Area 51.
• Area 51 Testing: Have Blue and F-117A were tested at Area 51, with F-117A later deployed to Tonopah and Holloman.
• Tacit Blue: The Pentagon team developed Tacit Blue, a stealthy battlefield surveillance aircraft demonstrator.
• Tacit Blue Impact: Its technology influenced the B-2 stealth bomber, though it wasn’t mass-produced.
• Have Blue Photos: No declassified photos exist of Have Blue’s first flight takeoff on December 1, 1977.
• First Have Blue Features: The first prototype had a drag chute box and test boom, painted in camouflage.
• Second Prototype: The second Have Blue lacked the boom and chute, painted light gray for stealth.
• Accidents: Both Have Blue prototypes crashed, but pilots Bill Park and Ken Dyson survived.
• Data Preservation: The crashes occurred after the program’s goals were met, with no significant data loss.
• Ben Rich Meeting: Merlin met Ben Rich, former Skunk Works head, known for a laid-back management style.
• Rich’s Projects: Rich led Have Blue, F-117A, Sea Shadow, and a stealth cruise missile proposal.
• Rich’s Exaggerations: Rich’s book “Skunk Works” contained exaggerations, disputed by stealth pioneers.
• ET Comment: Rich jokingly referenced a contract to “send ET home,” causing misinterpretations.
• Advanced Aeronautics: The transcript cuts off before discussing the Advanced Aeronautics organization’s projects.
Actionable Insights
• Research Primary Sources: When studying stealth programs, cross-reference accounts like Ben Rich’s with other pioneers’ perspectives to avoid bias.
• Leverage Historical Expertise: Engage with historians like Merlin for accurate, detailed insights into classified programs.
• Understand Trade-offs: In stealth design, prioritize mission goals (e.g., stealth vs. aerodynamics) to guide development.
• Explore Declassified Data: Seek declassified documents or photos for programs like Have Blue, though availability may be limited.
• Learn from Failures: The Have Blue crashes highlight the importance of testing prototypes thoroughly before operational use.
Main Arguments
Description:
In Part 1 of this detailed and informative interview, Michael Schratt talks to Aviation Archaeologist and Area 51 expert Peter Merlin on the true history of the remote test site in Nevada.
Topics to be included: U-2 Spyplane, A-12, SR-71, Have Blue, Tacit Blue, F-117, Dyson's Dock, "Sam's Place", burn pits at Area 51, and much more.
Strap in and prepare yourself for a non-holds-barred interview with the world's expert on the topic (also see Peter Merlin's new book DREAMLAND). ___ Below is a summary of the YouTube video "Area 51 Exposed (Part One)" based on the provided transcript. The transcript features an interview with Peter Merlin, an aviation and aerospace historian, discussing his background, the Lockheed Have Blue program, stealth technology development, and related black programs. The takeaways highlight main arguments, actionable insights, and crucial details, with a focus on clarity and conciseness.
Takeaways from "Area 51 Exposed (Part One)"
• Interview Date and Guest: The interview was conducted on March 6, 2016, with Peter Merlin, an aviation and aerospace historian.
• Merlin’s Background: Merlin has been interested in aviation and space since childhood, sparked by watching Apollo launches.
• Educational Path: He graduated from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University with a degree in aeronautical studies and management in 1987.
• Career Shift: Due to an aerospace industry downturn in 1987, Merlin worked for a commuter airline for 10 years.
• Freelance Journalism: Merlin became a freelance journalist, writing aviation and space stories, which launched his writing career.
• Lockheed Have Blue Program: The Have Blue program was a pioneering effort in stealth technology to reduce radar, infrared, and acoustic signatures.
• Stealth Definition: Stealth technology aims to make aircraft less detectable by minimizing radar cross-section and other signatures.
• DARPA and Air Force Involvement: In the mid-1970s, DARPA and the Air Force explored stealth for tactical aircraft.
• Project Harvey: Initial stealth studies were conducted under Project Harvey, involving major aerospace companies.
• Lockheed’s Exclusion: Lockheed was initially excluded from Project Harvey due to no recent tactical aircraft production.
• Lockheed’s Secret Expertise: Lockheed had extensive, classified experience with low observables from the A-12 Blackbird program.
• A-12 Blackbird: Developed in the 1960s, the A-12 was designed for high speed, high altitude, and reduced radar detection.
• Kelly Johnson’s Role: Lockheed’s Kelly Johnson faced challenges balancing stealth and performance in the A-12 design.
• D-21 Drone: The D-21, a Mach 3 drone, had the lowest radar cross-section of its time, showcasing Lockheed’s stealth expertise.
• Lockheed Joins Harvey: Lockheed gained entry to Project Harvey after declassifying some A-12 data, funded by their own resources.
• Initial Design: Lockheed’s early stealth design resembled the D-21 but removed the vertical tail and intake for stealth.
• Faceting Technique: Lockheed adopted faceting—using flat plates—to enhance stealth, inspired by a Russian study.
• Echo One Software: Dennis Overholzer’s Echo One program calculated radar cross-sections for faceted shapes.
• Hopeless Diamond: The faceted “Hopeless Diamond” design was nearly invisible to radar but aerodynamically challenging.
• Aerodynamic Trade-offs: Faceting conflicted with traditional aerodynamic principles, prioritizing stealth over flight performance.
• XST Development: The Experimental Survivable Testbed (XST) turned the Hopeless Diamond into a flyable aircraft.
• Fly-by-Wire System: The XST required an analog fly-by-wire system due to its inherent instability.
• Vertical Fins: Inward-canted vertical fins were added to the XST to minimize radar reflection.
• Have Blue Prototypes: Two small Have Blue prototypes were built as technology demonstrators, not operational aircraft.
• Northrop’s XST: Northrop competed with a faceted XST design but lost to Lockheed due to higher radar cross-section.
• Northrop’s Future Role: The Air Force encouraged Northrop to stay involved, leading to the B-2 stealth bomber.
• First Have Blue Purpose: The first prototype tested handling qualities to ensure basic flight capability.
• Angular Design: Have Blue’s wings lacked traditional airfoils, designed by electrical engineers for stealth.
• Revolutionary Design Process: Stealth was the primary design goal, with flight performance secondary.
• Pentagon’s Low Observable Office: A small Pentagon team in the 1970s studied stealth under the Senior High program.
• Team Members: The team included Jerry Babber, Dave England, Joe Ralston, and Robert Bond.
• Senior High Program: This program covered all stealth aircraft development, including Have Blue and beyond.
• Stealth Cruise Missile: The team explored stealthy cruise missiles for penetrating defended airspace.
• F-117A Origins: Have Blue’s success led to the F-117A, a stealth tactical bomber, not a fighter.
• F-117A Role: Designed to slip through defenses and strike targets with minimal detection.
• Desert Storm Success: The F-117A proved its stealth capabilities in Operation Desert Storm.
• Senior Trend Program: The F-117A was developed under the Senior Trend program, tested at Area 51.
• Area 51 Testing: Have Blue and F-117A were tested at Area 51, with F-117A later deployed to Tonopah and Holloman.
• Tacit Blue: The Pentagon team developed Tacit Blue, a stealthy battlefield surveillance aircraft demonstrator.
• Tacit Blue Impact: Its technology influenced the B-2 stealth bomber, though it wasn’t mass-produced.
• Have Blue Photos: No declassified photos exist of Have Blue’s first flight takeoff on December 1, 1977.
• First Have Blue Features: The first prototype had a drag chute box and test boom, painted in camouflage.
• Second Prototype: The second Have Blue lacked the boom and chute, painted light gray for stealth.
• Accidents: Both Have Blue prototypes crashed, but pilots Bill Park and Ken Dyson survived.
• Data Preservation: The crashes occurred after the program’s goals were met, with no significant data loss.
• Ben Rich Meeting: Merlin met Ben Rich, former Skunk Works head, known for a laid-back management style.
• Rich’s Projects: Rich led Have Blue, F-117A, Sea Shadow, and a stealth cruise missile proposal.
• Rich’s Exaggerations: Rich’s book “Skunk Works” contained exaggerations, disputed by stealth pioneers.
• ET Comment: Rich jokingly referenced a contract to “send ET home,” causing misinterpretations.
• Advanced Aeronautics: The transcript cuts off before discussing the Advanced Aeronautics organization’s projects.
Actionable Insights
• Research Primary Sources: When studying stealth programs, cross-reference accounts like Ben Rich’s with other pioneers’ perspectives to avoid bias.
• Leverage Historical Expertise: Engage with historians like Merlin for accurate, detailed insights into classified programs.
• Understand Trade-offs: In stealth design, prioritize mission goals (e.g., stealth vs. aerodynamics) to guide development.
• Explore Declassified Data: Seek declassified documents or photos for programs like Have Blue, though availability may be limited.
• Learn from Failures: The Have Blue crashes highlight the importance of testing prototypes thoroughly before operational use.
Main Arguments
• Stealth Innovation: The Have Blue program marked a revolutionary shift in aircraft design, prioritizing stealth over traditional aerodynamics.
• Lockheed’s Legacy: Lockheed’s secret expertise from the A-12 and D-21 gave it a critical edge in stealth development.
• Team Collaboration: The Pentagon’s Low Observable Office and Lockheed’s Skunk Works collaborated closely to advance stealth technology.
• Program Evolution: Have Blue’s success directly led to the F-117A and influenced other stealth projects like Tacit Blue and the B-2.
• Historical Accuracy: Ben Rich’s accounts, while valuable, require scrutiny due to exaggerations, emphasizing the need for multiple perspectives.
Crucial Statistics
• Timeline: Have Blue’s first flight was December 1, 1977; Project Harvey began in the mid-1970s; F-117A was operational by Desert Storm (1991).
• Prototypes: Two Have Blue aircraft were built, both lost in accidents (1978 and later).
• D-21 Achievement: In the 1960s, the D-21 drone had the lowest radar cross-section of any aircraft at the time.
• Team Size: The Pentagon’s Low Observable Office was a small team of key figures like Babber, England, Ralston, and Bond.
• Hopeless Diamond Facets: The initial Hopeless Diamond design used about six flat plates for stealth.
This summary captures the essence of the video, focusing on Merlin’s expertise, the technical and historical significance of the Have Blue program, and the broader context of stealth development. For further details, viewers can watch the video at the provided link or explore declassified sources on stealth programs.
• Lockheed’s Legacy: Lockheed’s secret expertise from the A-12 and D-21 gave it a critical edge in stealth development.
• Team Collaboration: The Pentagon’s Low Observable Office and Lockheed’s Skunk Works collaborated closely to advance stealth technology.
• Program Evolution: Have Blue’s success directly led to the F-117A and influenced other stealth projects like Tacit Blue and the B-2.
• Historical Accuracy: Ben Rich’s accounts, while valuable, require scrutiny due to exaggerations, emphasizing the need for multiple perspectives.
Crucial Statistics
• Timeline: Have Blue’s first flight was December 1, 1977; Project Harvey began in the mid-1970s; F-117A was operational by Desert Storm (1991).
• Prototypes: Two Have Blue aircraft were built, both lost in accidents (1978 and later).
• D-21 Achievement: In the 1960s, the D-21 drone had the lowest radar cross-section of any aircraft at the time.
• Team Size: The Pentagon’s Low Observable Office was a small team of key figures like Babber, England, Ralston, and Bond.
• Hopeless Diamond Facets: The initial Hopeless Diamond design used about six flat plates for stealth.
This summary captures the essence of the video, focusing on Merlin’s expertise, the technical and historical significance of the Have Blue program, and the broader context of stealth development. For further details, viewers can watch the video at the provided link or explore declassified sources on stealth programs.
