What methods are used to evaluate the effectiveness of Low Observable coatings after application?

The effectiveness of Low Observable (LO) coatings after application is primarily evaluated through inspection methods such as visual assessments. Visual assessments enable maintenance personnel to look for any obvious defects in the coating, such as chips, cracks, or irregularities that could compromise the LO characteristics. This hands-on assessment is crucial because it allows for immediate identification of issues that may affect the aircraft's radar cross-section and overall stealth performance.

The visual inspection is often complemented by additional techniques, including the use of specialized tools to detect underlying problems that might not be visible to the naked eye. Such inspections ensure that the coatings maintain their properties as intended, supporting the operational readiness of stealth aircraft.

While other methods like thermal imaging or flight testing can provide relevant information about the aircraft's performance and operational effectiveness, they do not directly assess the integrity of the LO coatings in the same manner that visual assessments do. Similarly, weight and balance measurements are more geared towards ensuring the aircraft is flyable rather than explicitly evaluating coating effectiveness.