The YF-23: The Forgotten Fighter That Could Have Been

From 1945 website

The Northrop McDonnell-Douglas YF-23, a stealthy and advanced prototype, competed against the Lockheed-Boeing-General Dynamics YF-22 in the 1991 Advanced Tactical Fighter (ATF) fly-off. While the YF-22 won, evolving into the F-22 Raptor, the YF-23 quietly faded into history, until now.

With renewed interest in next-generation fighters, many are revisiting the YF-23’s design. It was faster, had superior stealth, a higher ceiling, and better range. However, the YF-22 was more agile and demonstrated aggressive manoeuvrings and missile launches, impressing the Air Force. Ultimately, the YF-22’s performance and “fighter pilot’s appeal” won the contract.

Test pilot Paul Metz, one of the few to fly both aircraft, noted that Northrop’s engineers focused on technical excellence, while Lockheed excelled in marketing and showmanship. The YF-22’s flashier demonstrations may have tipped the scales in its favour.

The ATF program sought a stealthy, survivable fighter, yet the decision reflected a bias toward dogfighting instincts. Some argue that the YF-23’s innovations deserve another look, especially as modern air combat evolves. Though overshadowed, its legacy may still influence future designs.

Would the YF-23 have been the better choice? That debate continues today.