Stealth Technology
I think we should have a separate tech. tree that deals with Stealth Technology, since said technology is being used not just for aircraft, but with tanks, submarines, surface vessels and later on, infantry. If not separate, then it should be instituted with some of the existing tech.
I.E.
Theory and Study of Stealth Technology:
With traditional bomber aircraft sustaining massive losses from anti-aircraft guns and later from Surface to Air Missiles (SAM) during WWII, Korea and Vietnam, the quest for a stealthy aircraft able to penetrate enemy airspace and hit targets without fear of detection and potentially heavy losses in both aircraft and pilots were the dreams of scientists, engineers, and especially to those who fly in harm's way. Though expensive and so far theoretical and in study, the far-reaching implications on the modern battlefield could very well define victory for those that are far-sighted enough to develop and nurture Stealth Technology.
Research and Development of Stealth Designs and Specifications:
With Theory and Study into Stealth Technology being validated, it is now time to research and develop the technology by instituting designs and specifications into the project. Designs such as the Delta-Wing and V-Wing along with the lack of flat surfaces and a low profile for specifications. The designs and specifications are a must to optimize the survivability and performance of the aircraft. The latest advances in electronic countermeasures would also be heavily implemented into the aircraft.
Research and Development of Stealth Materials:
Once the designs and specifications phase of the project is complete, then the materials necessary to defeat modern radar and other electronic detection systems should now be researched upon. Such RAM (Radar Absorbing Material) as Radar-Absorbing Paint and Coating and low-signature engines, once developed, will be invaluable for aircraft survivability and success.
Testing and Evaluation of Stealth Mechanics:
Upon the completion of the materials necessary for the aircraft, field testing and evaluation of the aircraft should commence. By testing and evaluating the aircraft's performance under simulated environments, we would be able to analyze and identify the technology's strengths and weaknesses. Once we have identified its strengths, then we could improve upon them while we look for ways to correct its potentially fatal weaknesses.
Corrections and Improvements in Stealth Technology:
After strenuous field tests, we are now able to correct some deficiencies within the aircraft by reducing its RCS (Radar Cross Section) and by using more radar opaque composites to supplement the coating of radar absorbing material in place. Unfortunately, we also have to reduce the payload capacity as a sacrifice for more stealth. Such a compromise however, is necessary.
Application of Stealth Technology and Materials:
It is now possible for us to implement the technology in our various weapons systems. However, due to its high design, production and maintenance costs, we could only try out the technology on a select few of our weapons systems. The new prototype aircraft that we have finalized would be the first to institute the technology and thus usher in the beginnings of Stealth Technology.
Stealth Application in Aircraft: (BASIC)
We have now decided to implement the technology on our new prototype aircrafts. However, the price tag for such a prototype with stealth technology is very expensive, thus we could only field a few of our newest aircraft. (During the Cold War, DARPA (Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency) came up with the idea of using stealth aircraft in response to the increasingly sophisticated Soviet SAM systems. Later, Lockheed Martin (Aircraft Manufacturer) developed the SR-71 "Blackbird." A high-altitude, high speed spy plane that could penetrate deep into Soviet airspace and thus conduct surveillance for the security of the United States.)
Combat Testing of Stealth Technology:
As such, the expensive price of Stealth Technology is becoming an issue within our top leaders. So in order to verify and validate its high costs, Combat Testing is crucial to convince our leaders of the usefulness, viability and impact of Stealth Technology.
Modifications in Stealth Development: (IMPROVED)
After its viability and worth has been proven in combat, modifications are necessary in order to further enhance the aircraft's survivability, durability and reliability. Though we have achieved Stealth Technology, we are by no means close to the pinnacle of "True Stealth." As stealthy as they are, we have still suffered some losses. In order to alleviate those deficiencies, we would have to develop improved Stealth technologies and techniques. (Lockheed Martin started the project "Have Blue" after Soviet SA-6/SA-7 were able to shoot down a couple of SR-71 over Russia. Project "Have Blue" would later be known as the F-117 upon its introduction in the Persian Gulf War of 1991. Along with this comes the B-1 and B-2 Stealth Bombers.)
Stealth Application in Surface Vessels/Submarines:
With Stealth Technology fully proving its abilities, the decision to make it available to other systems is only natural. With the materials and costs becoming cheaper, we have decided to make our naval arm more stealthy. We could now have the opportunity to either modify our naval forces to a limited extent, or build newer, and more stealthier naval forces that could be maximized by stealth, with such a Navy, ultimate domination of the oceans would become a reality. (Currently, the U.S. is trying to develop newer Stealth Aircraft Carriers, Destroyers, Cruisers, Frigates and even more stealthier and deadlier Submarines that would eclipse the Los Angeles Class.)
Research into Advanced Stealth Technology:
Further extended research into even more advanced technologies are now possible and within reach of our capabilities. If we manage to be able to develop such advanced stealth technology, we would be virtually impossible to defeat!
Advanced Stealth Technology and Materials: (ADVANCED)
We are now in the forefront of Stealth Technology and are in position to revolutionize the technology even further than imagined possible. (Example: U.S. F-22 Raptor.)
Stealth Application for Land Vehicles/Tanks:
With the application of Stealth Technology unto our vehicles and tanks, we could easily rule the battlefield as our enemy's forces are no match for our technologically superior forces. (The U.S. is conducting research and is close to finalizing its development of a Stealth Tank that is clearly superior to ANY tank in the world.)
Stealth Application on Infantry:
We have now reached the pinnacle of Stealth Technology! With the introduction and development of stealth for our Infantry, along with its added benefit of boosting morale, we are in position to becoming the most lethal and dangerous Army ever to roam the battlefield. (The U.S. is already doing research into stealth technology for its Infantry.)