UPSC Previous Year Question | Prelims GS | 2026

Which of the following statements with regard to stealth technology is/are correct? 1. Stealth objects have a very small radar cross-section and are coated with Radar Absorbing Material. 2. Stealth objects can be detected using specific frequencies. 3. Stealth objects are coated with metamaterials to increase the scattering of electromagnetic radiation. Select the answer using the code given below:

  1. 1 only
  2. 2 and 3 only
  3. 1 and 2 only
  4. 1, 2 and 3

Answer

Correct Answer

1 and 2 only

Explanation

Stealth technology seeks to reduce an object's radar cross-section through specialised shaping and materials such as Radar Absorbing Materials (RAM), making statement 1 correct. Stealth is frequency-dependent, and certain radar frequencies, particularly lower-frequency systems, may have better prospects of detecting stealth objects, making statement 2 correct. Metamaterials and related technologies are generally investigated to control, absorb or redirect electromagnetic waves, not to increase electromagnetic scattering. Hence statement 3 is incorrect.

Topics: defence technology, radar systems, science and technology, stealth technology