What is the F-22 Raptor? A Complete Analysis of the U.S. Fifth Generation Air Superiority Fighter
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F-22 Raptor: The fifth-generation air superiority fighter of the United States Air Force. (Illustrative image)
F-22 Raptor, led by Lockheed Martin with Boeing’s participation, is the world’s first fifth-generation fighter jet to enter mass production. It integrates low radar cross-section (stealth), supersonic cruise (supercruise), super maneuverability from thrust vectoring, and advanced sensor fusion into a single airframe, with the primary purpose of achieving air superiority. This article introduces the parameters, production history, export bans of the F-22, and its positioning relative to the F-35, Su-57, and J-20.
Table of Contents: Overview · Parameters · Stealth and Supercruise · Weapons · Production and Export Bans · Comparison · FAQs
Overview: Why the Raptor is Important
The F-22 originated from the ATF (Advanced Tactical Fighter) program at the end of the Cold War, aimed at suppressing Soviet air defense systems and fighter platforms. The YF-22 prototype made its first flight in 1990; the production model took to the skies in 1997 and entered service with the U.S. Air Force in 2005.
Its design philosophy can be summarized in one sentence: Detect first, fire first, remain undetected. The low radar cross-section shortens the detection range for adversaries, while sensor fusion allows pilots to maintain a unified air combat situation on a single display.
The F-22 is the first operational fighter jet capable of sustained supersonic cruise (supercruise) without afterburners, providing both range and an energy advantage when facing enemy missiles.
The two-dimensional vector thrust nozzle provides excellent nose pointing capability (super maneuverability) even at low speeds. Stealth is not only derived from the shape but also relies on radar-absorbent materials and internal weapon carriage.
Weapons
To maintain its signal characteristics, the Raptor carries weapons in internal bays. The typical air-to-air loadout includes six AIM-120 AMRAAMs and two AIM-9 Sidewinders. Small diameter bombs provide it with limited air-to-ground capability.
Production and Export Ban
The F-22 has never been exported. The Obey Amendment of 1998 legally prohibits the sale of the Raptor abroad, thus it only serves in the United States Air Force.
Due to budget pressures, production ended far earlier than planned, concluding in 2011 with 195 aircraft. The small fleet size is a major reason for the high costs of maintaining and upgrading this model today.
F-22 Compared to F-35, Su-57, and J-20
The F-22 was designed purely for air superiority, while the F-35 is a multi-role platform primarily focused on ground attack; the two complement each other rather than compete. The Russian Su-57 and Chinese J-20 are the closest heavy fighter counterparts to the Raptor.
Model
Country
Seats
Engine
Max Speed
Main Air-to-Air Missiles
F-22 Raptor
USA
1
2× F119-PW-100 (TVC)
~Mach 2.25
AIM-120, AIM-9
F-35A
USA
1
1× F135
~Mach 1.6
AIM-120, AIM-9X
Su-57
Russia
1
2× AL-41F1 / Izdelie 30
~Mach 2.0
R-77M, R-37M
J-20
China
1
2× WS-10C / WS-15
~Mach 2.0
PL-15, PL-10
Note: Comparisons are based on publicly available data; real-world performance depends on operational concepts, sensor networking, and training levels.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many F-22s have been produced?
A total of 195 units (8 test, 187 operational). Production ended in 2011.
Why is the F-22 not exported?
The Obey Amendment of 1998 legally prohibits its sale abroad. The Raptor serves only in the U.S. Air Force.
Which is stronger, the F-22 or the F-35?
They are designed for different missions: the F-22 excels in air superiority, while the F-35 is geared towards multirole and networked operations. It depends on the mission.
How much does the F-22 cost?
According to sources, the flyaway cost per unit is approximately $150 million; the unit price including R&D is higher. The cost of kits and project costs should be understood separately.
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