What type of documentation is essential for tracking modifications to Low Observable aircraft?

Maintenance records and technical orders are critical for tracking modifications to Low Observable (LO) aircraft because they provide detailed documentation on all alterations made to the aircraft's structure and systems. Maintenance records encompass logs of work performed, updates made during inspections, and any repairs that have been carried out. This helps maintain a comprehensive history of the aircraft's condition and modification status.

Technical orders serve as official directives that outline procedures for modifications, maintenance requirements, and specifications necessary to ensure the aircraft's operational readiness and low observable characteristics. They offer essential guidance on how to implement modifications correctly while ensuring compliance with established safety and operational standards.

Both maintenance records and technical orders ensure that any modifications are documented systematically, which is crucial for future maintenance, inspections, and overall lifecycle management of the aircraft. This documentation is especially important for LO aircraft, where modifications can impact both performance and stealth capabilities.