The F-117 Nighthawk, developed by Lockheed's secretive Skunk Works division, was the pioneering stealth attack aircraft designed around advanced stealth technology. It first flew in 1981 and achieved operational status in 1983. With its initial flight shrouded in secrecy until its public reveal in 1988, the F-117 became an emblem of American ingenuity. Of the 64 built, 59 were production versions, serving mainly as stealth attack aircraft, with many seeing combat in the Gulf War and former Yugoslavia. 

The 59th and final operational F-117, affectionately named "Affectionately Christine," made its first flight on May 11, 1990. During the Gulf War, it completed 33 combat missions. In April 2008, "Affectionately Christine" was given a new paint scheme for its final flight, adorned with "Stars and Stripes" on the underside, before being retired at Holloman Air Force Base.