Finally got my first build out at my dads house :)

LF-709 Shadow

“When you see it, it’s already over.”

The LF-709 Shadow is a cutting-edge 6th generation stealth multirole fighter developed by Clover Aerospace Division in Aerensport, the capital of Tarania. Designed for the Taranian Marines and Navy, the Shadow boasts an incredibly compact frame — even smaller than the venerable F-5E Tiger — making it virtually invisible to radar with a radar cross section estimated to be the size of an ant.

Its airframe is coated extensively with Radar Absorbent Materials (RAM) and equipped with an advanced active fuel cooling system that channels fuel throughout the frame to reduce infrared signature, rendering it nearly undetectable by heat-seeking systems. This extreme stealth is so effective that even a single flare can reliably divert radar-guided missiles.

The Shadow is powered by twin Clovertech AF-972 adaptive cycle turbofans with thrust vectoring, enabling a supercruise speed of Mach 1.1 and a top speed of Mach 1.59. Pilots can push the aircraft to an astounding 19g sustained, supported by a revolutionary adaptive G-suit technology that significantly expands maneuvering limits.

Avionics include a quantum-link combat AI and 360-degree sensor fusion, paired with advanced ECM and decoy clouds for survivability. Its armament is optimized for multi-role engagement, typically loaded with 4 AXRAAM multi-role air-to-air missiles and 4 AIM-9X short-range infrared-guided missiles stored in internal weapons bays and stealth-configurable hardpoints.

Performance Specifications – LF-709 Shadow

| Category | Specification |
| ------------------------------ | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| Role | 6th Generation Stealth Multirole Fighter |
| Crew | 1 (optionally AI-assisted/co-pilot drone interface) |
| Length | 13.3 meters |
| Wingspan | 8.4 meters |
| Height | Unknown |
| Max Takeoff Weight | 16,500 kg |
| Powerplant | 2× Clovertech AF-972 Adaptive Cycle Turbofans w/ vector thrust |
| Thrust (combined) | 45,000 lbf (200 kN) w/ afterburner |
| Supercruise Speed | Mach 1.1 |
| Max Speed | Mach 1.59 |
| Combat Radius | \~1,400 km (870 mi) |
| Ferry Range | \~3,000 km (1,864 mi) with external conformal tanks |
| Service Ceiling | 70,000 ft (21,300 m) |
| G-Limit | +19g sustained (enabled by cutting-edge, adaptive G-suit technology) |
| Radar Cross Section | Estimated \~0.0001 m² (“size of an ant”); so low that even a single flare can reliably divert radar-guided missiles |
| IR Signature | Ultra-low, actively cooled airframe |
| Avionics Suite | Quantum-link combat AI, 360° sensor fusion, ECM/decoy cloud |
| Weapons Bay | 2x internal modular bays, 4x hardpoints (stealth-optional) |
| Armament (Typical Loadout) | <ul><li>4× AXRAAM multi-role air-to-air missiles</li><li>4× AIM-9X short-range infrared-guided missiles</li></ul> |
| Stealth Features | RAM-coated skin, angled geometry, active cooling, EM suppression |
| Post-Stall Capability | Full 3D thrust vectoring + adaptive control surfaces |
| Takeoff Configurations | CATOBAR / STOBAR / Short-field / Carrier-compatible |

Lore: The Silent Hounds

The Silent Hounds are the most famous and decorated squadron flying the LF-709 Shadow, a testament to their elite status in the Taranian Marines and Navy. Renowned for their unmatched stealth tactics, surgical precision, and seamless teamwork, the squadron has become a symbol of Tarania’s aerial dominance and technological prowess.

Their most celebrated moment came on March 19th, 2025, during a critical operation to liberate Aerensport, the capital of Tarania, from a violent and well-equipped terrorist siege. The terrorists had seized key government buildings and held the city hostage, threatening to destabilize the nation. The Silent Hounds were deployed as the spearhead of the Taranian counteroffensive.

“Silent Hounds, this is Commander Rylis,” came the calm voice over the radio. “Enemy air defenses are dense. Keep your profiles low and stay sharp. This city depends on us.”

“Copy that, Commander. Shadow One here, weapons systems hot and ready,” replied Captain Soren, leading the strike group as the jets disappeared into the clouded skyline.

Using the Shadow’s exceptional stealth and agility, the Silent Hounds infiltrated hostile airspace undetected. As they reached the first target — a fortified terrorist command hub — Soren radioed, “Locking target. AXRAAMs away.”

Seconds later, precision explosions rocked the building. “Target destroyed. Moving to secondary objectives,” Soren confirmed.

Lieutenant Kade, flying as Shadow Three, added, “Enemy fighters scrambling. Engaging with AIM-9Xs.” His missiles found their marks swiftly, neutralizing the threat before it could escalate.

Their ability to evade radar, combined with precision-guided munitions and the support of their quantum-link combat AI, enabled them to dismantle the terrorist network swiftly and with minimal civilian casualties.

As the mission concluded, Commander Rylis praised the squadron, “Outstanding work, Silent Hounds. Aerensport is safe thanks to you.”

PSM Shenanigans: Flightfest Legends

Beyond their battlefield valor, the Silent Hounds have carved out a legendary reputation for their spirited “PSM shenanigans” at the annual Aerensport Flightfest — a tradition as beloved as their combat record.

The origins of these playful maneuvers trace back to an early Flightfest when Shadow Two accidentally engaged a mock dogfight too aggressively, only to end up in a hilarious mid-air barrel roll after a risky loop.

“Shadow Two, you alright down there?” teased Shadow Four over the comms.

“Never better! Just adding some flair for the crowd,” came the cheeky reply.

Since then, the Hounds have perfected a repertoire of signature moves:

• The Phantom Loop: A sudden, low-visibility vertical loop that catches spectators and rival pilots off guard.

• The Ghost Spin: A coordinated 360-degree spin where all jets rotate in sync, creating a mesmerizing vortex effect.

• The PSM Chase: A playful, high-speed tail chase where pilots tease each other, often ending with a cheeky flare deployment.

During a recent Flightfest, Shadow Three joked over the radio, “Bet you can’t catch me before I cross the finish line!”

Shadow Five shot back, “In your dreams, Three! Prepare to eat my contrails!”

Their banter and stunts have become crowd favorites, symbolizing the squadron’s tight bond and zest for life despite their serious combat role. The PSM routines also serve as informal training, sharpening pilots’ reflexes and teamwork in a low-pressure environment.

yes it overperforms, no, I don’t care.