F-22 Raptor: America’s Unmatched Stealth Air Superiority Fighter

Introduction and Significance

The Lockheed Martin F-22 Raptor is a fifth-generation stealth fighter jet renowned as one of the most formidable air superiority fighters ever built. Developed for the United States Air Force (USAF) as a successor to the F-15 Eagle, the F-22 pioneered new levels of stealth, speed, and maneuverability when it entered service in the mid-2000s. Its combination of stealth technology, supercruise (sustained supersonic flight without afterburner), and advanced avionics represented an “exponential leap in warfighting capabilities,” according to the USAF af.mil. The Raptor’s significance lies in its ability to secure air dominance – it was designed to defeat any known or projected enemy fighter and protect allied forces by denying opponents control of the skies af.mil. Even decades after its introduction, the F-22 remains a critical asset for the U.S. military and a benchmark against which other nations’ fighters are measured.

Development History and Purpose: The F-22’s origins trace back to the Cold War. In the 1980s, the USAF’s Advanced Tactical Fighter (ATF) program sought a new air-superiority aircraft to counter advanced Soviet fighters and surface-to-air threats. Competing prototypes – the Lockheed YF-22 and Northrop YF-23 – flew in 1990, and ultimately the YF-22 was selected in 1991 to enter Engineering and Manufacturing Development af.mil af.mil. The F-22 (then briefly designated F/A-22) achieved its first flight in 1997 and progressed through testing and evaluation into the early 2000s af.mil. In 2005, after successful operational testing, it entered full-rate production and was officially named the “Raptor,” with Initial Operational Capability achieved in December 2005 af.mil af.mil. The Raptor’s purpose was clear: air dominance. It was built to replace the F-15 and ensure U.S. air superiority into the 21st century, capable of rapidly projecting power at great distances and defeating emerging threats before they could challenge allied air or ground forces af.mil. Even as the Cold War ended, the Raptor’s development continued, though the planned purchase quantity was sharply reduced from originally 700+ jets down to under 200 due to changing threats and high costs. In the end, the USAF procured 187 production F-22s (plus a handful of test units) by 2012, when the line shut down slashgear.com slashgear.com.

F-22 Technical Specifications and Design

The F-22 Raptor’s design reflects a focus on stealth, power, and agility. Key technical specifications are summarized below:

Table: F-22 Raptor key design specifications and systems. As shown, the F-22 is a large twin-engine fighter built primarily from advanced alloys and carbon-fiber composites to minimize weight and radar signature. Notably, it carries weapons internally in three weapon bays (two side bays for short-range missiles and a main ventral bay) to maintain a “clean” profile – this both preserves stealth and reduces drag, improving aerodynamics and range man.fas.org man.fas.org. Four external hardpoints under the wings can be used for ferry tanks or extra weapons if stealth is not a priority, but in normal combat configuration the F-22 flies with no external stores man.fas.org.

Stealth Features: The F-22 was the world’s first true stealth fighter and incorporates comprehensive measures to achieve a low radar cross-section (RCS) and low observability across multiple detection methods. The airframe’s shape was finely sculpted for minimal radar reflection – it features clipped delta wings, canted twin tails, edge alignment, and internal weapons carriage to reduce radar returns. The skin uses advanced radar-absorbent materials and coatings; unlike earlier stealth planes (e.g. the F-117), the F-22 uses durable carbon fiber composite skin panels that avoid the need for delicate coatings or constant climate-controlled hangars, making it more deployable in the field slashgear.com slashgear.com. The design also manages heat and noise: the F-22’s engines have serrated afterburner nozzles and cooling measures to lower infrared signature, and the airframe limits radio-frequency emissions and even visual visibility (through camouflage and sleek profile) slashgear.com. The result is an aircraft that is extremely hard to detect or lock onto – even if an enemy can glimpse a Raptor at close range, getting a weapons lock is exceedingly difficult. As a testament, during exercises F-22s often achieve simulated kills without ever appearing on opponents’ radar. Stealth, combined with high speed and altitude, allows the Raptor to often engage enemies first (“first-look, first-shot, first-kill”) before the opponent even knows it’s there af.mil.

Airframe and Engine Performance: The F-22’s aerodynamic design and powerful engines give it exceptional performance. It is built for agility with a high thrust-to-weight ratio, large control surfaces, and a relaxed static stability design augmented by a digital fly-by-wire system. Uniquely, the F-22’s Pratt & Whitney F119 engines feature two-dimensional thrust-vectoring nozzles that can deflect exhaust by ±20 degrees in the pitch axis slashgear.com. This allows the jet to perform extreme post-stall maneuvers and tighten its turning radius beyond what conventional fighters can do. An F-22 pilot described its dogfighting prowess succinctly: “Raptor has vectored thrust; Typhoon doesn’t… What the aircraft can do is incredible” sandboxx.us. The F-22 can out-turn and out-climb virtually any rival – it can climb at over 62,000 ft per minute, far exceeding most fighters eurasiantimes.com. Its top speed is around Mach 2.0–2.25, and unlike most fighters, it can sustain supersonic cruise (around Mach 1.5) without afterburners – a capability known as supercruise af.mil eurasiantimes.com. Supercruise and high altitude operation (it can soar above 50,000 feet) give the Raptor greater tactical reach and missile kinetic energy. In fact, launching missiles at supersonic speeds and high altitude extends their range and impact – one of the often overlooked advantages the F-22 brings to beyond-visual-range (BVR) combat defenseindustrydaily.com. Overall, the Raptor’s blend of speed, altitude, and agility makes it extraordinarily lethal in a dogfight as well as in BVR engagements.

Advanced Avionics: What truly sets the F-22 apart is its brain – a sophisticated sensor and avionics suite that fuses data into unmatched situational awareness for the pilot. The Raptor was one of the first fighters to employ an Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar, the AN/APG-77, which can track multiple targets at long ranges with low probability of intercept. It also has a passive sensor suite (radar warning receivers, infrared sensors, and datalinks) all feeding into an integrated avionics system. The F-22 was designed to filter and fuse sensor inputs automatically, displaying a coherent tactical picture to the pilot without overwhelming them af.mil. Pilots often praise that flying the Raptor is like “letting the airplane do the work” of sensing and even some flying, so they can focus on tactical decisions sandboxx.us. The sensor fusion and high processing power were leaps ahead of earlier fighters. For communications, the F-22 has a secure datalink (IFDL) to talk with other F-22s covertly, and can receive (but originally not transmit) Link-16 data with other platforms. The combination of stealth and sensor fusion means an F-22 pilot typically knows where the enemy is long before they are detected in return – drastically shrinking the opponent’s engagement envelope af.mil. In essence, the Raptor can see first, shoot first, and leave hostile forces at a huge disadvantage.

Performance: Speed, Maneuverability, and Stealth in Action

In operational terms, the F-22’s performance has proven exceptional. It is extremely fast and high-flying – with the ability to supercruise above Mach 1.5, it can rapidly intercept targets or reposition across a theater far quicker than legacy fighters. Its maximum speed is not often officially stated beyond “Mach 2 class,” but pilots have indicated roughly Mach 2.25 in level flight is attainable eurasiantimes.com. More importantly, the Raptor can maintain supersonic speeds without afterburner, giving it a cruising speed advantage and greater fuel efficiency at those speeds af.mil. This contributes to a higher effective combat radius and quicker response time to emerging threats. The service ceiling well above 50,000 ft also means it can fly higher than many adversaries – altitude translates to both sensor range and missile range advantages. For instance, an AIM-120 AMRAAM fired from a supercruising, high-altitude F-22 will travel faster and farther than the same missile launched from a lower, slower platform.

In close-range combat, the Raptor’s agility is world-class. It can pull instantaneous high-G turns and jaw-dropping post-stall maneuvers that allow it to point its nose and weapons at targets that would be out of reach for a conventional fighter. Its thrust-vectoring, combined with excellent aerodynamics and a high thrust-to-weight ratio, make it highly maneuverable in dogfights af.mil. During exercises, F-22s have demonstrated the ability to outmaneuver advanced 4th-generation fighters. Even the Eurofighter Typhoon – known for agility – lacks the nose-pointing authority that the Raptor’s vectored thrust provides sandboxx.us. Pilots note the F-22 can rapidly recover energy after maneuvers, and its sophisticated flight controls prevent loss of control even at extreme angles of attack. This agility, paired with its situational awareness, means the F-22 is not just a BVR sniper but also a nightmare to face within visual range.

Perhaps most famous is the F-22’s stealth performance – in combat exercises, Raptors have repeatedly achieved lopsided kill ratios. In one Red Flag exercise, F-22s reportedly achieved 144 kills to 0 losses against aggressor fighters, illustrating how difficult they are to detect and target. Advances in low observability mean the Raptor can often slip into the heart of defended airspace, engaging enemy aircraft or even surface threats with much less risk of being engaged back. Its stealth is optimized for high-frequency radars (like those on fighters and SAMs), making it nearly invisible on enemy scopes until it’s too late. Even when enemy aircraft attempt to engage within visual range, the F-22’s combination of stealth and advanced electronic warfare can stymie opponent sensors. As the USAF notes, the Raptor “drastically shrinks surface-to-air missile engagement envelopes and minimizes enemy capabilities to track and engage the F-22” af.mil. This stealth advantage not only protects the F-22 itself but also allows it to act as a “force multiplier” – it can enter contested airspace first, knocking out air defenses and clearing the way for other assets.

In summary, the F-22’s performance is characterized by blazing speed, high altitude, extreme agility, and stealth. This unique combination is what made the Raptor the premier air dominance fighter. It can strike swiftly and unseen, and if a fight comes to close quarters, it has the maneuvering edge to prevail there too. These capabilities ensure the F-22 pilot controls the engagement. As USAF statements have often summarized: the F-22 “cannot be matched by any known or projected fighter” in the world af.mil.

An F-22A Raptor performing a high-G maneuver with afterburners engaged during an airshow. The Raptor’s sleek design and powerful F119 engines (with thrust-vectoring nozzles) allow it to supercruise and outmaneuver other fighters af.mil af.mil.

Armament and Mission Capabilities

Primary Role – Air Dominance: In its standard configuration, the F-22 Raptor is armed for the air-superiority mission. It carries a potent load of eight air-to-air weapons internally: typically 6 × AIM-120C AMRAAM medium-range radar-guided missiles in the main bay, and 2 × AIM-9M/X Sidewinder short-range infrared missiles in the side weapon bays af.mil af.mil. This loadout enables the F-22 to attack multiple enemy aircraft from beyond visual range and also engage in close-in dogfights if needed. The internal 20mm M61A2 Vulcan cannon provides a backup for dogfighting or strafing, with 480 rounds on board af.mil. Although the F-22 carries fewer missiles internally than some older fighters that use external pylons (for instance, an F-15C could carry 8 AIM-120 + 4 AIM-9 externally), the tradeoff is improved stealth and drag – and its high kill probability means it has historically needed only a few missiles per engagement. The Raptor’s doctrine is to shoot down enemy aircraft before they ever get within a firing position, leveraging stealth and AMRAAM – and its record in exercises supports that approach.

Secondary Role – Precision Strike: Though designed primarily as an air-to-air fighter, the F-22 also has a ground attack capability. In the air-to-ground configuration, it can internally carry 2 × 1,000-pound GBU-32 JDAM GPS-guided bombs (one in each side of the main bay, replacing some missiles) while still retaining 2 AIM-120 missiles for self-protection af.mil af.mil. Using its onboard nav-attack system and GPS, the F-22 can deliver JDAMs accurately on surface targets – giving it a stealthy first-strike capability against critical targets like enemy air defenses or command centers. This capability was demonstrated in combat: F-22s dropped JDAMs during strikes against ISIS targets in Syria in the 2010s, marking the Raptor’s first air-to-ground combat use slashgear.com. Furthermore, the F-22’s strike role is being expanded – plans were outlined to integrate up to 8 Small Diameter Bombs (SDBs) internally (which are 250-lb class precision glide bombs) af.mil. This would significantly increase the Raptor’s ground attack magazine. There were also considerations to add advanced air-to-ground munitions and improve the radar’s ground mapping for better strike capability. However, compared to the F-35 or dedicated bombers, the F-22’s strike capacity remains limited in payload and has no air-to-ground radar mapping mode until upgrades are implemented. Thus, the Raptor performs “silver bullet” strike missions – taking out key threats with surprise – rather than serving as a bomb truck.

Other Mission Capabilities: The F-22’s stealth and sensor suite allow it to perform missions beyond pure combat. It can function in an “electronic warfare” or electronic support role by using its radar and sensors to jam or confuse enemy sensors, or to feed target information to other platforms. Its powerful AN/APG-77 radar can be used in low-probability-of-intercept modes to gather intelligence on enemy emitters. The F-22’s high-end avionics also let it act as a “mini-AWACS” for friendly fighters – it can pass along target tracks (via datalink or voice) to less stealthy allies from a forward position inside contested airspace. In exercises, F-22s sometimes operate as stealthy forward scouts, silently spotting enemies and even cueing friendly missile shots without the enemy realizing they were ever there. While the Raptor lacks a built-in targeting pod or IRST (infrared search and track) like some multirole jets, its integrated avionics still give it substantial ability to detect ground emissions and cue precision strikes. The USAF has also explored using F-22s for roles like hypersonic missile launch platforms (given its speed and altitude) and teaming them with drones. In recent developments, the F-22 has tested coordination with “loyal wingman” drones; notably, Russia has experimented similarly pairing Su-57 fighters with Okhotnik drones 19fortyfive.com 19fortyfive.com, and the U.S. is looking to field autonomous wingmen for its fighters in the future.

In all, the F-22 is multirole to a degree – it remains first and foremost an air superiority fighter, but it can drop precision munitions on ground targets, conduct limited surveillance and electronic attack, and even perform maritime strike (with future anti-ship missiles) if it were ever equipped for it. Its mission flexibility has grown with software upgrades. Still, compared to newer multirole platforms, the Raptor’s air-to-ground capabilities are somewhat basic. The lack of an infrared targeting sensor or full-motion video downlink, for example, means it is not typically used for close air support or dynamic targeting. The Raptor can carry externally mounted pods (and has tested with a LITENING targeting pod on a pylon), but doing so negates stealth. Thus, those missions are usually left to F-35s or F-15Es. The F-22’s niche is “kick down the door” missions: clearing out enemy fighters and key defenses so that other coalition aircraft can operate freely everycrsreport.com everycrsreport.com. In this role, it excels like no other.

Pilot Helmet and Cockpit Systems

The F-22 features a one-man cockpit packed with advanced displays and systems designed to maximize the pilot’s effectiveness while minimizing workload. The cockpit is often described as a “glass cockpit” – it has several large multi-function color LCD screens (but not the single huge touchscreen seen in the F-35). Critical flight and combat data are presented in a sensor-fused view, meaning the avionics automatically combine inputs from radar, electronic sensors, and external information to show a coherent picture. This gives the pilot unprecedented situational awareness, so much so that Raptor pilots say they spend far less time “heads-down” managing sensors and more time making tactical decisions sandboxx.us sandboxx.us. A quote from an F-22 pilot encapsulated this: “When you’re flying the Raptor, you’re not thinking about flying the Raptor… flying is secondary. You’re thinking about employing the Raptor.” sandboxx.us. The jet’s hands-on-throttle-and-stick (HOTAS) controls and voice inputs allow the pilot to operate weapons and sensors without losing focus. Situational awareness symbology is also projected on the wide head-up display (HUD), keeping critical targeting information in the pilot’s view while looking out.

One notable aspect of the F-22’s cockpit system was the absence (until recently) of a Helmet-Mounted Display (HMD) for the pilot. Many modern fighters use helmet-mounted sights that project information on the pilot’s visor and allow them to cue weapons by simply looking at a target. The F-22 was initially fielded without such a system – a surprising omission attributed to developmental priorities and the F-22’s tight cockpit space and canopy design. The original canopy and helmet did not accommodate the standard Joint Helmet Mounted Cueing System (JHMCS) used in F-15s and F-16s; indeed, the shape of the F-22’s canopy, optimized for stealth, limited the pilot’s head movement space, making early helmet displays incompatible theaviationist.com. For years, F-22 pilots lacked the off-boresight cueing ability that other jets had, meaning they could not fully exploit high off-angle missiles like the AIM-9X Sidewinder. This was a disadvantage in close combat. Efforts to integrate an HMD took a long time. Only in the 2020s has progress been made: the Air Force began testing a new Next-Generation Fixed Wing Helmet that is lighter and designed to accommodate helmet-mounted devices for F-22 pilots theaviationist.com theaviationist.com. This new helmet (manufactured by LIFT) is intended to finally give Raptor pilots a Helmet Mounted Display, using the Scorpion HMD system, without causing neck strain or cockpit fit issues theaviationist.com theaviationist.com. As of 2023, F-22 units were testing these helmets – a significant upgrade that will allow F-22 pilots to cue targets simply by looking, and see critical flight data on the visor theaviationist.com theaviationist.com. The lack of an HMD was one of the few avionics gaps the Raptor had compared to newer fighters, and its impending resolution will make the F-22 even deadlier at close range.

Aside from the helmet issue, the life support and cockpit environment have also seen attention. The F-22 is equipped with an On-Board Oxygen Generation System (OBOGS) to supply pilot oxygen, which had some highly publicized issues about a decade ago (pilots experienced hypoxia-like symptoms). The Air Force corrected those problems by 2012 with improved filters and protocols. The ejection seat is an advanced ACES II that can safely eject the pilot at low altitudes and high speeds. The canopy offers excellent visibility to the front and sides (critical for a fighter), though rearward view is somewhat limited (mitigated by the fact that few enemies will get behind a Raptor in the first place). The cockpit is also designed for pilot comfort on long missions – ergonomics and even some stealth-related features (like a special coated canopy that hides the pilot’s helmet from radar and also shields against nuclear flash). The integration of systems in the cockpit was revolutionary for its time: the F-22 can automatically share target data between pilots, and its computers perform millions of operations to assist the human in the loop. Overall, the F-22’s cockpit and pilot systems are geared to maximize lethality while minimizing workload, keeping the Raptor pilot a step ahead of opponents.

Unit Cost and Program Cost

The F-22 Raptor is often cited as one of the most expensive fighter programs in history, and cost considerations heavily influenced its production run. For a sense of scale: the unit procurement cost of an F-22 was about $143 million (in 2000s USD) per jet according to the USAF (flyaway cost, not including all development) af.mil. However, if one includes the enormous research and development expense, the effective cost per aircraft skyrockets. By the end of production in 2011–2012, the U.S. government had spent an estimated $67.3 billion total on the F-22 program slashgear.com. With only 187 operational Raptors delivered, that works out to about $360 million per aircraft on average slashgear.com. In other words, each F-22 (including R&D) cost several times more than an F-15 or F-16.

This high cost is the main reason the F-22 program was cut short. Originally, the Air Force envisioned buying 750 Raptors to replace the bulk of its F-15 fleet slashgear.com. But through the 1990s and 2000s, as the Cold War threat waned and budgets tightened, the planned buy was sliced to 381, then ~240, and finally capped at 187 in production (plus test planes) due to cost concerns. By 2009, Secretary of Defense Gates decided to terminate F-22 production and instead invest in the more affordable F-35 program. Each additional Raptor’s price tag and the expensive maintenance made it a target for budget cuts. As one analysis notes, “cost became a major consideration, and the Air Force cut its order… Each runs about $350 million, with the total program costing $67 billion.” slashgear.com. In pure procurement terms (flyaway cost), later F-22s were cheaper than early ones (economies of scale never fully realized due to the small fleet), but still on the order of $150M each.

In comparison, the newer F-35A was supposed to cost around $80M-$120M each in procurement, and even the more advanced F-35B is about $109M slashgear.com. The F-22’s high price was partly due to its cutting-edge technology and partly due to the protracted development timeline. The program took over 20 years from concept to operational service slashgear.com, during which requirements evolved and costs grew. The Government Accountability Office (GAO) documented how the F-22’s development costs roughly doubled from initial estimates slashgear.com. Advanced materials, new avionics, and stealth all drove up expense. Additionally, the small production run meant the huge R&D cost was amortized over relatively few jets, inflating the per-unit figures.

Operating costs are similarly high. The F-22 is expensive to fly and maintain, owing to its complexity and stealth coatings. A GAO report noted that flight hour costs for the F-22 are on the order of $85,000 per hour, which is more than double that of an F-35 (around $35k–$42k/hour) slashgear.com. Maintenance of the stealth skin and avionics is manpower-intensive. Early on, the F-22 suffered from lower-than-expected mission capable rates (around 50-60%), though improvements have been made to logistics and reliability in recent years. The Air Force has implemented updates to make the Raptor easier to maintain, but it will likely always be a “high-touch” asset. By design, the F-22 was also not meant for austere base operations without significant support, though it has deployed overseas (for example, to UAE and Japan) with portable hangars and contractor logistics in tow.

Despite the cost, the F-22’s capabilities are often argued to justify the price – it has been called an “insurance policy” to guarantee air superiority. Still, the staggering price tag had strategic implications: it resulted in a very limited inventory of jets. The USAF only has about 125 combat-coded F-22s active at any time (after accounting for training and test aircraft and a few lost to accidents), which means they must be carefully apportioned to potential hotspots. The high cost also essentially precluded any export sales, since no ally could likely afford them even if allowed (more on that below). In summary, the F-22 program cost about $67 billion total, producing under 200 aircraft slashgear.com. Each jet’s true cost (including R&D) is roughly $350 million – a price that made the Raptor both a marvel and a budgetary cautionary tale. Today, with production ceased, maintaining and upgrading the existing fleet is the focus, and funds that would have gone to more F-22s have been redirected to the F-35 and future programs.

Current Operational Status and Operators

As of 2025, the F-22 Raptor remains in frontline service exclusively with the United States Air Force. There are no other countries operating the F-22, due to export restrictions (discussed in the next section) and the lack of foreign sales. The USAF originally received 187 production F-22A Raptors; after a few combat training losses and one crash in 2020, the active inventory stands at around 183 Raptors in the USAF af.mil. These jets equip several fighter squadrons primarily under Air Combat Command and Pacific Air Forces, including units based in Virginia, Alaska, Hawaii, and periodically rotated to overseas theaters. Key F-22 bases have included Joint Base Langley-Eustis (VA), Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson (Alaska), Nellis AFB (Nevada – for training), Tyndall AFB (Florida – until storm damage caused temporary relocation of F-22 units), and Hickam (Hawaii). Raptors also have a rotational presence in Japan and Guam to bolster Pacific defense.

The F-22 is expected to remain operational into the 2030s. The USAF has invested in incremental upgrade programs (called Increments 3.1, 3.2A, 3.2B) that have added capabilities like improved ground mapping radar, integration of the latest AIM-9X and AIM-120D missiles, better electronic warfare suites, and upgraded communications. The current plan is to keep the Raptor fleet credible as the air superiority backbone until a Next-Generation Air Dominance (NGAD) sixth-generation fighter can be fielded to eventually replace it slashgear.com. Air Force officials have indicated the F-22 might begin to phase out in the 2030s as NGAD comes online, but until then, it serves as the “bridge” to the next era slashgear.com. Notably, in 2024 the USAF announced intentions to pursue NGAD aggressively and possibly start retiring the oldest F-22s around 2030, but the exact timeline depends on budgets and threat outlook.

Operationally, F-22 squadrons today focus on air dominance missions. They routinely participate in Red Flag exercises and joint drills, where their presence forces all other participants to adjust tactics. Raptors have also been deployed for real-world deterrence: they patrol near Syria and Iraq to keep hostile aircraft at bay, they have deployed to Eastern Europe (in 2022 a few F-22s were sent to Poland and Germany amid NATO’s bolstering of air defenses), and to the Pacific to deter China and North Korea. In 2023, F-22s famously were tasked to shoot down a high-altitude Chinese surveillance balloon over U.S. territory – an unconventional “kill,” but it showcased their ability to reach very high altitudes. That shootdown (with an AIM-9X missile) was actually the F-22’s first air-to-air kill in operational history (since thankfully no enemy fighter has been shot down by an F-22 in combat to date) slashgear.com.

No other nation currently flies the F-22. Some allies, like Japan, Australia, and Israel, at times expressed strong interest in buying the Raptor in the 2000s, but U.S. law and policy prevented those sales. Japan in particular lobbied for a variant of the F-22 to counter regional threats, but was denied. Thus, the USAF is the sole operator – making the Raptor a uniquely American strategic asset. This also means the USAF shoulders the full burden of supporting the jet’s logistics and upgrades without the benefit of foreign funding or larger production scale. Still, the Raptor fleet today is a centerpiece of U.S. airpower. Pilots consider it a coveted platform to fly, and it continues to serve as a deterrent symbol; when Raptors arrive in a theater, it signals the U.S. commitment to air dominance there.

Export Restrictions and Political Considerations

One of the defining aspects of the F-22 program is that it was never exported. In fact, it was illegal under U.S. law to sell the F-22 to any foreign government, even close allies everycrsreport.com. This prohibition stemmed from the so-called “Obey Amendment,” a clause first inserted by Congress in the 1998 defense appropriations that forbade spending on exporting the F-22 everycrsreport.com. The rationale was to protect the Raptor’s advanced stealth and sensitive technologies from potential compromise. The F-22 was simply deemed too critical to U.S. security to risk even allied operators, which might in turn be subject to espionage or could inadvertently allow technology leakage. Given the state-of-the-art stealth, avionics, and materials in the F-22, Congress decided to keep it U.S.-only. This is relatively unique, as most U.S. fighters (F-15, F-16, F/A-18, etc.) have export versions. The ban was revisited several times – for instance, in the mid-2000s as F-22 production faced shutdown, some argued exporting to Japan or others could keep the line alive. The House even passed a measure in 2006 to allow considering exports, but it was struck down in conference everycrsreport.com. The export ban held, and the F-22 officially never had a foreign military sales program.

From a political perspective, this had several implications. Close allies like Japan and Israel were frustrated – Japan saw the F-22 as an ideal solution to counter growing Chinese air capabilities and even offered to pay for development of an export variant. However, the U.S. Department of Defense, while officially “neutral” on exports, never pushed to lift the ban everycrsreport.com. Concerns included not only tech security but also industrial factors: an export F-22 would have required stripping or altering certain features (e.g. perhaps downgrading stealth or radar), which would be costly. By the time serious talks occurred (around 2006–2009), shutting down the production line versus extending it for exports became a debate. Proponents argued sales to allies like Japan could bring economies of scale and strengthen allied defense everycrsreport.com. Opponents worried even a Japan sale could lead to secrets leaking to others (for instance, if Japan’s industry worked on components, etc., or if the aircraft were deployed where they could be observed up close by adversaries). Ultimately, economic and political currents led to termination of F-22 production and no exports. The U.S. instead promised allies the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter, which, while advanced, was intentionally designed with export in mind and fewer crown-jewel secrets of stealth.

Politically, keeping the F-22 for America alone meant the U.S. retained a unique capability gap over other air forces for many years. Allies had to rely on the less stealthy F-35 or older fighters; this sometimes caused tension (e.g., Israel wanted F-22 but settled for F-35s later). Another consideration: the lack of foreign orders removed any outside political pressure to continue production – if say Japan had ordered some, the line might have stayed open longer. Instead, when Secretary Gates sought to end F-22 procurement at 187 units, there was little international lobby to counter that. The decision was somewhat controversial within the U.S.; some in Congress and the Air Force feared cutting F-22s would leave the U.S. short of air superiority fighters if a near-peer war broke out. But the huge cost and the focus on the F-35 (and counterinsurgency wars at the time) carried the day.

In summary, export restrictions (the Obey Amendment) kept the Raptor an exclusive U.S. asset everycrsreport.com. This ensured its technology remained secret – to this day, the F-22’s exact stealth coatings, electronic warfare capabilities, and other features remain highly classified. The downside was no allied interoperability with F-22s; even in coalition exercises, F-22s have to keep certain capabilities under wraps (there are anecdotes that F-22 pilots aren’t allowed to use full stealth or classified tactics when training with foreign pilots) eurasiantimes.com eurasiantimes.com. The political choice to not export the F-22 arguably pushed some allies (like Japan) to develop their own stealth fighter programs eventually. It also put pressure on the U.S. to share F-35 technology more widely to compensate allies. All in all, the F-22’s no-export policy underscores just how strategically valuable the U.S. viewed the Raptor – essentially placing it in a vault that only America’s pilots would access.

Comparisons with Other Top Fighter Jets

The F-22 is often compared to other advanced fighters – both friendly and potential adversaries. Below, we compare the Raptor across key performance and strategic dimensions with a few of its notable peers: the F-35 Lightning II (USA’s other 5th-gen fighter), Russia’s Sukhoi Su-57 “Felon”, China’s Chengdu J-20 “Mighty Dragon”, and Europe’s Eurofighter Typhoon. Each of these jets brings formidable capabilities, but differ in design philosophy and role. We will highlight how the F-22 stacks up in terms of stealth, speed, agility, avionics, and overall strategy.

F-22 vs. F-35 Lightning II

The F-35 Lightning II is a newer fifth-generation fighter developed after the F-22, and it is often mistakenly pitted against the Raptor in hypothetical contests. In reality, the two U.S. jets were designed to work together, with different strengths. The F-22 is a twin-engine air superiority fighter specialized for air-to-air combat, whereas the F-35 is a single-engine multirole fighter intended to perform a wide range of missions (strike, close air support, reconnaissance, as well as air defense). The F-35 program started in the 1990s (first flight in 2006) and by 2020s has produced over 1,000 jets for the U.S. and allies eurasiantimes.com. It incorporates newer technology in some areas but was built under the constraint of being affordable and exportable, unlike the cost-no-object F-22.

Stealth: Both aircraft are very stealthy, but the F-22 is generally considered to have the edge in ultimate low observability. In fact, many sources note that “the F-22 Raptor is considered the stealthiest fighter jet on the planet,” with an even smaller radar cross-section than the F-35 eurasiantimes.com. The F-35 benefitted from some newer materials and manufacturing techniques, and is extremely stealthy from the frontal aspect (perhaps even comparable to the Raptor head-on). However, the F-22’s larger size allowed more curvature and alignment for stealth, and it was designed with a single-minded emphasis on radar evasion. Official statements have sometimes hinted the F-35 achieved stealth parity or slightly better stealth in certain bands, but any difference is marginal in practice f-16.net. Both jets far outperform 4th-gen fighters in stealth. The Raptor’s stealth coatings are more maintenance-intensive (older formula) whereas the F-35 has simpler appliqué coatings. In any case, both F-22 and F-35 pilots operate with a low observable footprint that makes them virtually unseen until within weapon range.

Speed and Agility: Here the F-22 clearly outclasses the F-35. The Raptor was built for raw performance – it has twin engines producing ~70,000 lbf combined thrust, allowing Mach 2+ speed. The F-35’s single F135 engine (about 43,000 lbf) gives it a top speed of ≈Mach 1.6 19fortyfive.com eurasiantimes.com. The F-35 also cannot supercruise to the extent the F-22 can; it can only briefly dash supersonic without afterburner (and doing so is not a standard tactic as it heats up the stealth coating). In climb and altitude, the F-22 also wins – it can fly higher (60k+ ft ceiling vs ~50k ft for F-35) 19fortyfive.com and has a much higher climb rate (one metric: F-22 ~62,000 ft/min vs F-35 ~45,000 ft/min) eurasiantimes.com. Maneuverability-wise, the F-22 was designed to be supermaneuverable with thrust vectoring and can sustain ~9 g turns with ease. The F-35 is limited to about 9 g as well but has a higher wing loading and no thrust vectoring, making it comparatively less nimble. In dogfight scenarios, an F-22 has a clear advantage in terms of energy and agility; the F-35 “does not stand a chance against the Raptor in dogfighting,” as it was simply not optimized for that eurasiantimes.com. One F-35 pilot-turned-analyst put it: “The F-35, with its air-to-ground combat design, is not designed for breakaway speed… It has less maneuverability than the F-22 in dogfight scenarios” eurasiantimes.com. The design trade-offs mean the F-35 handles more like a very advanced F-16 – excellent in most fights, but the Raptor is on another level in pure kinematics.

Avionics and Sensors: This is where the F-35 shines. Being a decade newer in design, the F-35 has more advanced sensor fusion and a complex suite of cameras and sensors (e.g. the Electro-Optical Targeting System and Distributed Aperture System, which give 360° infrared coverage and allow the pilot to see through the aircraft via helmet visor). The F-22’s avionics were cutting-edge for the 90s, but the F-35’s are a generation beyond in computing power. The F-35’s APG-81 AESA radar is an evolution of the F-22’s APG-77, optimized for both air and ground modes (the F-35 can do high-resolution SAR mapping, for example). The F-22 gained some ground mode in later upgrades, but the F-35 was built with multi-role sensors in mind. The F-35 also features the famous Helmet Mounted Display where all info (including night vision and targeting) is projected in the visor – something the F-22 is only now catching up on. In essence, the F-35 is often called a “flying computer”; it acts as a networked sensor node, collecting and sharing data via advanced datalinks to other aircraft or command centers 19fortyfive.com. The F-22’s integration with networks is more limited due to older tech (though recent add-ons like Project Hydra are improving that). Thus, in a high-tech battlefield, the F-35 provides better situational awareness to the fleet, even if the F-22 has better raw flight performance.

Roles and Mission: The F-22 and F-35 fulfill complementary roles. The Raptor’s role is air dominance – clearing the skies of enemy fighters and high-value targets. The Lightning II’s role is strike and versatility – it can perform SEAD (Suppression of Enemy Air Defenses), bombing, close support, and also serve in air defense. In a major conflict, the expectation is F-22s would sweep the enemy fighters and air defenses at the outbreak, and F-35s would exploit that gap to conduct strikes and support ground/maritime forces eurasiantimes.com eurasiantimes.com. The Air Force has even stated the F-35 would fill gaps between F-22 patrols during large-scale engagements, using its stealth and sensors to handle threats that get through when F-22s aren’t around eurasiantimes.com. The F-35, however, is not intended to engage in protracted dogfights with top enemy fighters – that’s F-22’s job. It’s notable that the U.S. never pitted the two jets in a real exercise dogfight (publicly at least), but it’s generally accepted the F-22 would dominate air-to-air, whereas the F-35 offers far greater numbers and multi-mission usage.

Strategic/Programmatic: The F-35 is being built in the thousands and exported to many countries, making it the cornerstone of Western air forces. The F-22, conversely, is a small fleet (~183) owned solely by the USAF. This means allied air forces will rely on F-35s and have no Raptors, so the U.S. often sends F-22s overseas to plug air superiority gaps. Politically, the F-35 program is far more global, with shared development and intelligence among partners, whereas the Raptor is a closed American project. In terms of unit cost, modern F-35s are much cheaper; an F-35A is around $80 million now, whereas an F-22 would likely be well north of $200 million if it were still in production today. Maintenance cost also favors the F-35 (it’s newer and designed for easier upkeep, though it has had its challenges). The F-22’s high maintenance hours per flight hour mean it’s reserved for critical missions.

Bottom Line: The F-22 is specialized for air superiority and remains unmatched in that arena (speed, stealth, climb, dogfight) eurasiantimes.com eurasiantimes.com. The F-35 is versatile and numerous, excelling in strike roles and with cutting-edge sensor tech, but it “cannot match the F-22 as an air superiority fighter – it was never designed as such.” eurasiantimes.com Both fighters together give the U.S. a balanced capability: the F-22 as the high-end air dominance “quarterback” and the F-35 as the workhorse multirole “team player.” One isn’t strictly better than the other; each is superior in its intended role. As a pairing, they are extremely potent, covering each other’s gaps – the F-22 covers the F-35 in air combat, and the F-35 covers the F-22 in strike and networked operations eurasiantimes.com.

F-22 vs. Sukhoi Su-57 “Felon” (Russia)

The Sukhoi Su-57, code-named “Felon” by NATO, is Russia’s entrant into the fifth-generation fighter arena. It was designed to be a rough counterpart to the F-22 and F-35 – a multi-role stealthy fighter with high maneuverability. The Su-57 had its first flight in 2010 and officially entered limited service in the Russian Aerospace Forces around 2020. However, production has been slow and only a small number (estimated ~20 operational as of late 2024) are in service due to economic and technical hurdles 19fortyfive.com 19fortyfive.com. Nonetheless, the Su-57 provides a useful comparison as it sheds light on a different philosophy of 5th-gen design.

Stealth: The Su-57 incorporates stealth features like internal weapon bays, composite materials, and serrated edges, but it is generally regarded as less stealthy than the F-22. Analysts note that while the Su-57’s design likely reduces frontal radar cross-section (it has faceting and radar-absorbent coatings for head-on stealth), it appears Russia did not sacrifice as much for all-aspect stealth 19fortyfive.com 19fortyfive.com. Notably, the Su-57’s engines were initially un-shrouded and their exhausts are exposed, making the rear aspect highly non-stealthy – effectively like a 4th-gen fighter from behind 19fortyfive.com. Even from the front, the Su-57 has features (such as distinct gaps, an IRST sensor on the nose, and certain tail surfaces) that likely give it a larger RCS than an F-22. Sources describe the Felon’s stealth as significantly inferior to the F-22 and F-35, especially outside the frontal hemisphere 19fortyfive.com 19fortyfive.com. In practical terms, an F-22 would likely detect a Su-57 on radar well before the Su-57 could detect the F-22. The Russians traded some stealth to preserve other qualities (and perhaps due to less advanced stealth tech). The Su-57 does use plasma radar absorbents and other experimental stealth measures, but overall, the consensus is it is stealthy, but not “very low observable” to the degree of the Raptor 19fortyfive.com.

Maneuverability: True to Sukhoi tradition, the Su-57 emphasizes supermaneuverability and close-combat agility. It has 3D thrust vectoring (its engine nozzles can deflect in both pitch and yaw axes) and aerodynamics that allow extreme angles of attack. The Su-57 can perform impressive acrobatics – similar to or beyond what an F-22 can do in some regimes. For example, the Su-57 has demonstrated maneuvers at airshows like the “falling leaf” and high-alpha turns. Its agility is likely on par with the F-22 in low-speed dogfights, possibly even exceeding in certain post-stall antics. However, it’s worth noting that the Su-57 is a fairly large fighter, and currently its engines (AL-41F1, akin to those on the Su-35) do not give it as high thrust-to-weight as the Raptor. One analysis indicates the Su-57 may not have a T/W ratio to rival the F-22’s, meaning it may not sustain energy as well in vertical maneuvers 19fortyfive.com. Until Russia fits the more powerful new “Izdeliye 30” engines (still in testing), the Su-57 likely can’t supercruise as effectively as the F-22 (though it might supercruise around Mach 1.3 when fully equipped). Where the Su-57 shines is high angles and low-speed agility, consistent with Russian doctrine to have an edge in close-in fights 19fortyfive.com 19fortyfive.com. The F-22 is also highly maneuverable, so either way, both jets are lethal dogfighters. The difference is the Raptor intends to avoid ever getting into a neutral visual-range fight through stealth, whereas the Su-57 banks on being agile if it gets there. Both have 3D thrust vectoring (F-22’s is 2D, but its aerodynamics cover yaw well). So we’d assess maneuverability: roughly comparable, with Su-57 potentially more optimized for low-speed antics, F-22 having more raw power and high-speed performance.

Speed and Range: The Su-57 is a large twin-engine jet with substantial fuel capacity. Sukhoi advertises a range of around 3,000 km (1,860 miles) without refueling 19fortyfive.com – significantly greater than the F-22’s ~2,000 mile ferry range 19fortyfive.com. This suggests the Su-57 can fly longer distances or loiter longer, which fits Russia’s needs for covering vast airspace. Its top speed is around Mach 2.0 (similar to F-22’s general max) 19fortyfive.com. Service ceiling is reportedly ~65,000 ft for F-22 vs ~50,000 ft for Su-57 19fortyfive.com, interestingly meaning the Raptor might operate a bit higher (some sources cite ~20 km ceiling for Su-57, which is 65k ft, but 19FortyFive cited 50k ft 19fortyfive.com; there may be differing data). The F-22 definitely supercruises faster (Mach 1.5+ vs Su-57 Mach ~1.2-1.3 likely). In terms of acceleration and climb, the Raptor likely has the edge until the Su-57 receives newer engines.

Avionics and Sensors: The Su-57 features a modern AESA radar (N036 Byelka) and notably has side-looking AESA arrays as well, giving it some ability to detect stealth aircraft at angles. It also has an infrared search and track (IRST) system. However, Russian avionics historically lag somewhat in processing and integration. The F-22’s sensor fusion is combat-proven and extremely advanced, whereas it’s uncertain how well integrated the Su-57’s systems are. The Su-57 likely can detect an F-22 via IRST at some range if directly behind it (hot engines), but head-on the F-22’s heat is minimal. Overall, the Raptor’s electronics are still considered superior in providing situational awareness. The Su-57’s communications and data-links are for Russian use; it’s not as network-centric as Western fighters, though Russia is adding capabilities for it to link with drones (like the S-70 Okhotnik UCAV) 19fortyfive.com. One advantage the Su-57 might have is the carriage of certain very long-range missiles (like R-37M or upcoming KS-172) designed to kill support assets (AWACS, tankers) – giving it a strategic reach, though those might require external carriage (sacrificing stealth) forum.warthunder.com. The F-22 currently carries AIM-120D (~100 km range) as its longest stick; Su-57 could potentially deploy >200 km missiles (albeit with higher detectability when doing so).

Operational Status: As of 2024, Russia’s Su-57 fleet is tiny and relatively untested in combat. A few Su-57s reportedly carried out stand-off missile strikes in Syria and possibly in the Ukraine conflict, but they kept to safe distances, not risking them against serious air defenses 19fortyfive.com 19fortyfive.com. This means the Su-57’s true performance against peer threats is unproven. The F-22, by contrast, has been operational for over 15 years, with a mature logistics and pilot training pipeline. American pilots have the benefit of decades of stealth-fighter tactics and Red Flag exercises. Russian pilots have far less experience with stealth combat. Also, with only 20 or so Felons, Russia can’t field them widely, whereas the U.S. has Raptors in multiple theaters (and hundreds of F-35s to back them up). In a hypothetical faceoff, numbers and experience heavily favor the F-22 side.

In a nutshell: The F-22 likely dominates BVR engagements against the Su-57 due to superior stealth and sensors. It would detect the Felon first and could fire AIM-120 missiles before the Su-57 knows the Raptor is there reddit.com nationalinterest.org. The Su-57 might try to use its agility and any IRST cues to survive until visual range, where it can dogfight. In a close fight, it would be dangerous to underestimate the Su-57 – it is highly maneuverable and armed with modern high-off-boresight missiles too. However, getting to that merge is the challenge. As one analysis put it, “the F-22 and F-35 are stealthier and more maneuverable than the Felon… American pilots’ advanced training and proven platforms give the F-22 and F-35 an edge on paper and likely in combat.” 19fortyfive.com 19fortyfive.com. The Su-57’s strengths include longer range and multirole flexibility (it can do ground and anti-ship attacks) and the potential to control drones or launch hypersonic missiles 19fortyfive.com 19fortyfive.com, whereas the F-22 is more narrowly focused. The Su-57 also is cheaper (relatively) and easier to maintain than an F-22 (designed with some durability in mind for rougher Russian base conditions). But its weaknesses – stealth deficiency and low numbers – mean it does not pose the same level of threat the F-22 was built to counter (like a hypothetical stealth MIG that never came). In essence, the Su-57 is an impressive fighter by Russian standards, blending some stealth with extreme agility 19fortyfive.com 19fortyfive.com. But it falls short of the F-22’s combination of full-spectrum stealth and high-end avionics. As a result, even Russian sources acknowledge it “can’t compete with the F-22 or F-35 in stealth” and that Russia has struggled to field it in large numbers 19fortyfive.com 19fortyfive.com.

F-22 vs. Chengdu J-20 “Mighty Dragon” (China)

China’s Chengdu J-20 is another fifth-generation stealth fighter that invites comparison with the F-22. The J-20 is a twin-engine heavy fighter that entered PLAAF service in 2017, making China only the second nation to field an operational 5th-gen stealth jet. Nicknamed “Mighty Dragon,” the J-20 was designed with an emphasis on range and weapons load, and appears intended as a long-range air superiority/interceptor with secondary strike capability – somewhat akin to a stealthy F-15 in concept. By 2025, China is producing J-20s at a significant pace (estimated over 150 built) and has started equipping multiple combat units with them. How does it compare?

Stealth: The J-20’s design shows clear stealth shaping influence – it has a chiseled nose and forward fuselage similar to F-22/F-35 styles, canted twin tails, and internal weapon bays. However, analysts believe the J-20’s stealth is not on par with the F-22’s in certain aspects. The frontal stealth of J-20 is likely quite good (enough to be difficult to track on radar at long range). But the J-20 is a large airframe (about 20% bigger/longer than F-22), which can make radar return larger if not perfectly managed. Early J-20 prototypes had canards (foreplanes) which are generally bad for radar signature; however, the Chinese designers mitigated this with careful alignment and likely active cancellation techniques. Still, the F-22, built with more extensive experience and purpose-built for ultra-low observability, likely retains a smaller radar cross-section 19fortyfive.com 19fortyfive.com. Some experts suggest the J-20’s RCS might be “somewhat larger, if not significantly larger, than the F-22’s,” meaning it’s stealthy but not as invisible as a Raptor 19fortyfive.com 19fortyfive.com. The J-20 also may have compromises: e.g., its side weapons bays and engine intakes might reflect radar more. As of earlier variants, the J-20 engines lacked stealthy nozzles (they were round and exposed). Newer J-20 versions might incorporate WS-15 engines with serrated nozzles to improve rear stealth. Overall, F-22 is still widely considered stealthier from most aspects, although the gap is closing with each refinement China makes 19fortyfive.com 19fortyfive.com.

Speed and Range: The J-20 appears to prioritize range and speed. It is a large fighter likely capable of high supersonic dash. There are claims the J-20 can supercruise (possibly after getting new engines) around Mach 1.5, similar to F-22, but this isn’t confirmed. Top speed is probably around Mach 2.0 (limited by engine and inlet design). Where J-20 shines is fuel and range: it has big internal fuel capacity (some estimates around 25,000+ lbs, much more than F-22’s 18,000 lbs internal). This gives the J-20 a combat radius possibly on the order of 1,100–1,200 km, significantly greater than the F-22’s roughly ~800 km. The J-20 was intended to fly long distances over the South China Sea or Taiwan Strait and even threaten enabler aircraft (tankers/AWACS) of adversaries. So strategically, J-20 can cover more distance or stay on patrol longer than an F-22 without refueling. The F-22 would likely need tanker support sooner. In terms of altitude and climb, no open data suggests J-20 exceeds F-22 – likely they are comparable (50-60k ft ceilings, etc.). The F-22 still might have better thrust/weight if the J-20 is heavier and its engines (WS-10C or interim engines) aren’t as powerful per weight. In recent years, China did test a twin-seat J-20 variant and is working on newer engine upgrades, indicating they are still refining performance.

Maneuverability: This is a point of debate. Early speculation was that the J-20, with its delta wing and canard design, might sacrifice some dogfighting ability for stealth and speed. It’s larger and possibly less agile in a close dogfight than an F-22 or even smaller fighters like the F-35. Some PLAAF officers have stated the J-20 was not meant primarily for intense close-in combat but rather to intercept high-value targets and engage fighters at BVR. However, the J-20 is by no means a slouch in agility – it’s said to be quite agile for its size and later units might feature thrust vectoring (there was a variant with thrust-vector WS-10B engines shown at airshows). The canards, while potentially compromising stealth a bit, do confer better maneuverability and control at high angles of attack. So a J-20 could likely hold its own in a WVR engagement, but compared to the F-22 (which was built for dogfighting with TVC), the Raptor probably has the edge in instantaneous and sustained turn performance 19fortyfive.com 19fortyfive.com. Chinese sources downplay dogfights in general, emphasizing that modern air combat will be decided by BVR and information – an area they built the J-20 to excel in, by carrying long-range missiles and sensors. If a J-20 found itself dogfighting an F-22, many factors (pilot, situation) would matter, but purely on design, the F-22’s smaller size and TVC give it a likely advantage.

Avionics and Sensors: The J-20 features AESA radar and comprehensive sensor systems, but how they compare qualitatively is uncertain. China has made rapid progress in electronics, and the J-20 likely has sensor fusion akin to what Western 5th-gens do. It reportedly has an integrated EW suite and datalinks to share data with other fighters or AWACS. One difference: China has emphasized using the J-20 in concert with support drones and advanced networking. The J-20 may be equipped in the future to control swarming drones or act as a “mini-AWACS” like the F-22 can. In terms of radar detection range, an APG-77 on F-22 vs J-20’s radar (Type 1475 AESA) – they could be in similar class, perhaps 200+ km detection against 4th-gen targets. But against each other (both stealth), neither will see the other until maybe within tens of kilometers or less, likely having to use other methods (passive sensors). The F-22 currently lacks an IRST, whereas newer J-20s might have an IRST sensor (there have been images of a window atop the nose). That could give the J-20 a passive tracking method at shorter ranges. However, an IRST detection of a stealth F-22 head-on is still hard unless within maybe 20-30 km or if the Raptor uses afterburner. Data integration: The F-22’s big limitation was communication with other assets (stealthily). The J-20, being later, might have an easier time linking with Chinese data networks (like their datalink protocols). But overall, the U.S. has more AWACS and satellite support, whereas the J-20 would rely on Chinese C4ISR which is improving but not battle-proven. In terms of pilot interface, the J-20 reportedly now has a helmet display and modern cockpit; the F-22’s cockpit was cutting edge in 2005 but is being updated slowly.

Armament: Both jets carry internal weaponry. The F-22 can carry 6-8 AAMs internally; the J-20, being larger, is believed to carry 4 medium/long-range missiles in its main bay and perhaps 2 shorter-range in side bays (earlier J-20s had 4 + 2 config, though new loadouts with 6 in main bay are rumored). The J-20’s primary missile is the PL-15, a long-range radar-guided missile reportedly with AESA seeker and range possibly exceeding AIM-120D. There are also reports of a very long-range missile (PL-21 or PL-XX) in development to target support aircraft at extreme ranges. The F-22’s AIM-120D is excellent but if PL-15 has more range, that’s a factor (though actual effectiveness depends on networking and seekers). For close combat, the J-20 carries PL-10 IR missiles comparable to AIM-9X. Notably, the F-22 has a cannon, whereas the J-20 has no internal cannon as far as known – indicating the J-20 truly wasn’t designed for dogfights (the Chinese likely assumed gun kills are extremely unlikely in modern warfare, trading the gun for space/weight). This hearkens back to early F-4 Phantom’s assumption (which proved false in Vietnam). The F-22 kept its gun for last-resort use. So that’s an interesting divergence.

Role and Strategy: The J-20 is often thought of as a high-altitude interceptor designed to stealthily approach and destroy force-multipliers like AWACS and tankers, and to take on enemy fighters if needed youtube.com. It can carry long-range missiles and has the range to operate over the vast Pacific distances. The F-22 is more of a theater air dominance fighter, controlling a smaller radius of battle space but with higher performance within that space. Strategically, China can produce many J-20s, which could tip the balance by sheer numbers in the Asia-Pacific if the U.S. only has at most 1-2 squadrons of F-22s in theater. However, quality and pilot training still favor the U.S. for now. A U.S. Naval War College analyst Caleb Larson summarized that while China’s J-20 is a “significant milestone” in capability, U.S. jets (F-22 and F-35) likely retain an edge in maneuverability, stealth, and engine reliability, though China is “rapidly closing the gap” 19fortyfive.com 19fortyfive.com. The J-20’s engines (currently WS-10C) are less powerful and have had reliability issues, whereas the F-22’s F119 are very robust 19fortyfive.com. Future Chinese engines (WS-15) could change that.

Summary: The F-22 vs J-20 matchup would be complex. The F-22’s advantages: better close combat, smaller radar signature, proven tech and tactics, higher altitude performance 19fortyfive.com 19fortyfive.com. The J-20’s advantages: greater range, potentially more missiles in later versions, newer electronics (some aspects), and overwhelming in numbers as China builds more scmp.com 19fortyfive.com. Both are very stealthy, so an engagement might come down to who has better sensing or third-party support (AWACS). In that regard, the U.S. has a more mature doctrine with AWACS guiding F-22s; China is catching up fast. It’s noteworthy that “one-to-one comparisons are problematic,” but clearly China is now in the exclusive club of nations with operational stealth fighters 19fortyfive.com. The F-22 still likely “retains an edge” in pure air superiority metrics 19fortyfive.com 19fortyfive.com. However, if J-20s greatly outnumber F-22s in a conflict, the Raptor pilots would have their hands full. It becomes crucial that F-35s, and other U.S. assets, integrate to handle the J-20 threat. Essentially, the F-22 is a superior aircraft one-on-one, but the J-20 is “good enough” in stealth and has the numbers and continuous upgrades that make it a serious peer adversary. As Larson put it, the question of whether J-20 can rival F-22 “remains to be seen,” but China’s progress is undeniable 19fortyfive.com 19fortyfive.com.

F-22 vs. Eurofighter Typhoon (Europe)

The Eurofighter Typhoon is a 4.5-generation fighter jointly developed by the UK, Germany, Italy, and Spain. It entered service in the early 2000s, around the same time as the F-22, and was originally conceived as an air superiority fighter (though later adapted to multirole). While not a stealth aircraft, the Typhoon is one of the premier dogfighters of the 4th-gen era and has seen service with several NATO air forces. It provides an interesting comparison as a representative of the best non-stealth Western fighters.

Agility and Performance: The Typhoon is renowned for its agility, featuring a delta wing and canard configuration, powerful twin Eurojet EJ200 engines, and carefree handling up to 9+ g. It was designed to outmaneuver late-Cold War threats and has superb acceleration and climb. The F-22, however, has certain performance edges. The Typhoon’s top speed is about Mach 2.0 (limited by inlets) sandboxx.us, which is similar to the Raptor’s general operating max (Mach 2+). In practice, both rarely hit that in exercises. The F-22 can supercruise; the Typhoon reportedly can supercruise as well (with light load it can do ~Mach 1.2-1.5 without reheat), but not to the extent of the F-22’s sustained Mach 1.5+. Thrust-to-weight wise, a Typhoon at combat weight can exceed 1:1 (especially in air-to-air config), and interestingly an RAF officer noted “the Typhoon’s comparatively lower weight allows a better thrust-to-weight ratio in interceptor configuration than a similarly equipped Raptor” sandboxx.us. This suggests in a clean dogfight, a Typhoon might accelerate very well. However, the F-22’s vector thrust and higher angle of attack capability give it maneuver options the Typhoon doesn’t have. In dogfight exercises, when certain conditions are met (like the F-22 dragging external tanks or being within visual range), Typhoons have been able to “score” simulated kills on Raptors sandboxx.us sandboxx.us. For example, in a 2012 exercise, German Typhoon pilots noted that in WVR BFM (Basic Fighter Maneuvers), if the F-22 was forced into close range with some limitations (like external fuel tanks that reduce its advantage), the Typhoon could out-turn it in some instances sandboxx.us sandboxx.us. This is not too surprising: the Typhoon has excellent high angle-of-attack handling (though no thrust vector). The Raptor pilot community acknowledges Typhoon is a dangerous close-in threat. But if the Raptor uses its full capabilities (clean configuration, thrust vectoring, etc.), it is generally assessed to still be superior one-on-one. The RAF Chief of Staff Gen. John Jumper, who flew both jets, praised Typhoon’s smooth controls and sustained G, but also implied the F-22’s combination of stealth and maneuver is on another level (he described Typhoon as impressive, but still a generation behind in stealth) sandboxx.us sandboxx.us.

Stealth vs Non-Stealth: This is the starkest difference. The Typhoon has some frontal RCS reduction measures (composites, RAM coatings on the intakes, etc.), making it stealthier than older fighters in a limited sense sandboxx.us. Eurofighter GmbH claims only ~15% of its surface is metal, the rest composites, to reduce radar signature sandboxx.us. It also has an internal ECM to confuse radars. But it is not a stealth aircraft in the way the F-22 is. Thus, in a BVR engagement, an F-22 would detect, target, and shoot at a Typhoon long before the Typhoon’s radar (even an AESA one in latest models) could get a track on the Raptor. A Typhoon essentially cannot see an F-22 on radar until perhaps within visual range or unless cued by AWACS. This means in a real conflict, an F-22 has an overwhelming first-shot advantage over any 4th-gen fighter like Typhoon. Exercises between F-22s and Typhoons have borne this out: in BVR, Raptors achieved kill ratios like 10:0. The Typhoon’s best chance is to survive to merge and dogfight, which in real war is unlikely. The presence of stealth fundamentally changes the equation. Typhoon does have a PIRATE IRST system, which theoretically could detect a warm F-22 at some shorter range passively, but again, it’s not enough to negate the Raptor’s stealth fully.

Avionics: The Typhoon’s avionics have continually improved – it now can have AESA radar (the new Captor-E on recent tranches), great pilot interfaces, and strong ECM. But the F-22’s sensor fusion still might be better integrated (though it’s older). One advantage Typhoon has is robust digital datalinks with NATO assets and easier comms integration – ironically the F-22 had trouble talking to others. But with recent Link-16 receive, etc., Raptors can at least get targeting info without giving away position. Typhoon can carry advanced Meteor long-range missiles (farther range than AMRAAM), but again launching them without seeing the target is an issue. In a NATO context, Typhoons might rely on F-35s or AWACS to target stealth threats.

Weapons and Role: Typhoon carries a variety of weapons (beyond visual-range Meteor or AMRAAM, IRIS-T or ASRAAM WVR missiles, a 27mm Mauser cannon, and many air-to-ground munitions when needed). It’s a true multirole now, used in air policing, strike in Syria (dropping Paveway bombs), etc. The F-22 can do some strike but not to the Typhoon’s versatility (Typhoon has carried anti-ship missiles, etc., and is wired for many NATO weapons). However, Typhoon will forever lack the stealth to penetrate advanced defenses, which is why some Eurofighter users are buying F-35s to complement them.

In simulated combat: As mentioned, close in, a Typhoon could threaten an F-22 under certain conditions. There was famous case of a Typhoon getting a mock dogfight “kill” on a Raptor at a training (with some caveats in rules). But those are exceptional scenarios often. Generally, the F-22 would dominate due to first-shot ability. A quote often referenced from that National Interest piece: “Can a Typhoon beat an F-22? Yes – under the right set of rare and unusual circumstances, just about anything could beat the F-22.” nationalinterest.org nationalinterest.org – basically acknowledging it’s possible but the F-22 is superior in most situations.

Strategic: Eurofighter is operated by multiple countries (UK, Germany, Italy, Spain, Austria, etc.) and has seen export success (to Saudi Arabia, Qatar, etc.). It’s an example of a high-end non-stealth fighter that will remain in service well into the 2030s. The F-22’s job in any coalition would be to knock out threats so that allied Typhoons (and F-15s, etc.) can do their job. If a nation with Typhoons faced an enemy with F-22-level stealth, they would be at severe disadvantage unless they had their own stealth or help – this reality is driving Europe to pursue its own 5th-gen or 6th-gen programs (like the UK-Italy-Japan “Tempest” and the Franco-German “FCAS”). The Typhoon’s cost is lower than the F-22’s was, and it’s easier to maintain, designed with modularity (15 interchangeable modules) for servicing quickly sandboxx.us – a contrast to the F-22’s maintenance intensity.

In summary, F-22 vs Typhoon is essentially Stealth vs Aerodynamics. The F-22 would almost always win a long-range engagement, and likely a short-range one too given its capabilities, but the Typhoon remains one of the few jets that could potentially challenge a Raptor in a close dogfight if it ever got the chance sandboxx.us sandboxx.us. The two aircraft were designed around the same time but for different philosophies: the Raptor to revolutionize air combat with stealth and integrated avionics, and Typhoon to evolutionize traditional fighter design to the peak of 4th-gen performance sandboxx.us sandboxx.us. Both succeeded in their aims, but the Raptor’s new paradigm (stealth) gives it a qualitative edge that 4.5-gen fighters can’t overcome without leveling the tech playing field.

Pros and Cons of the F-22 Raptor

Finally, a balanced look at the advantages and disadvantages of the F-22 Raptor helps understand its legacy:

Pros (Strengths):

• Air Superiority Excellence: The F-22 is exceptionally capable in its primary role. It offers unrivaled combination of stealth, supercruise, altitude, and agility, making it the world’s premier air dominance fighter. In exercises, it has achieved overwhelming kill ratios against advanced fighters, showcasing its combat edge 19fortyfive.com 19fortyfive.com.
• Stealth and Survivability: The Raptor’s very low observability is a massive advantage. It can penetrate defended airspace and engage enemies with minimal risk of detection. This stealth not only protects the F-22 but also enables it to ambush adversaries and act as a stealthy sensor node for the broader force af.mil. It essentially dictates when and where engagements happen – a huge strategic benefit.
• First-Strike Capability: With internal precision weapons (JDAMs) and potential for SDBs, the F-22 can perform surprise strikes on high-value targets at the opening of a conflict. It can knock out enemy radars, SAMs, or fighters before they ever pose a threat, “bringing stealth into the day” – something legacy fighters cannot do af.mil.
• Sensor Fusion and Situational Awareness: The F-22’s integrated avionics drastically improve a pilot’s awareness. It can track multiple targets and engage them before being seen af.mil. Pilots have described the ease of operating the jet – the computer handles a lot of complexity, allowing the pilot to be a tactician rather than a systems manager sandboxx.us. This leads to a lethal efficiency in combat decisions.
• Supermaneuverability: Thrust-vectoring and superb aerodynamics give the Raptor extraordinary maneuverability when needed. It can execute maneuvers that can evade missiles or out-turn opponents in a dogfight, providing an extra edge if visual-range combat occurs af.mil. Few aircraft can match its post-stall control.
• Speed and Range: The ability to cruise supersonically without afterburner (supercruise ~Mach 1.5) means the F-22 can cover distance and reposition quickly or patrol longer than fighters that must throttle up (and guzzle fuel) to reach similar speeds af.mil. This enhances its operational flexibility and response time. Its ferry range with tanks (≈1850 miles) is also respectable, allowing deployment over oceans with refueling af.mil.
• Psychological and Deterrent Impact: The Raptor’s reputation itself is a strength. The presence of F-22s in a region is a powerful deterrent signal. Adversaries know that sending aircraft against a Raptor patrol is likely a futile endeavor. This can prevent conflicts or push adversaries to keep their fighters grounded, ceding airspace control to the U.S.
• Growth Potential: Though the Raptor’s production stopped, the existing fleet has some upgrade room (e.g., new weapons integration, improved datalinks, improved cockpit displays, potentially new radar modules). The jet’s baseline performance is so high that even incremental upgrades keep it at the top tier. The USAF has managed to integrate new missiles and update electronics via software, proving the platform can be kept fresh.
• Safety and Reliability: Despite cutting-edge tech, the F-22 has had a solid safety record after initial teething issues. There have been only a few crashes in over 15 years of service – a decent record for a high-performance jet. Maintenance metrics have improved over time, and the jet’s structures have aged well. The Raptor is built robustly, e.g., its stealth skin is tougher than B-2’s, meaning it can be deployed to harsher environments without special shelter slashgear.com. The use of composites has also mitigated corrosion issues that plague older metal fighters.

Cons (Weaknesses):

• Extremely High Cost: The F-22’s biggest downside is its expense – both in procurement and operation. At ~$150 million flyaway (and $350M including R&D) per jet slashgear.com, it consumed a huge portion of the defense budget, limiting how many could be bought. Its high cost per flight hour ($85k) and maintenance burden mean it’s costly to operate as well slashgear.com. This led to a small fleet that must be used judiciously. In a war of attrition, the limited quantity is a concern.
• Limited Numbers: Only 187 produced (about 125 combat-coded). This scarcity is a vulnerability; the F-22 cannot be everywhere at once. If multiple conflicts erupted, there aren’t enough Raptors to cover all fronts. Also, each loss (due to accident or combat) is significant because replacements are not available. The small fleet also creates challenges in pilot training throughput and makes every upgrade or sustainment program expensive per jet.
• No Exports / Coalition Use: Because it was not exported, allies do not have F-22s. This means in coalition operations, only the U.S. can field that capability. It also means the U.S. bears 100% of support costs. And politically, it somewhat isolated the Raptor in joint exercises – there are stories that even close allies were not allowed to even get too close to F-22s during drills to avoid revealing secrets. This lack of interoperability could be a con in large allied operations (although allies with F-35s fill the gap somewhat).
• Maintenance and Readiness: The F-22’s stealth coating and complex systems historically led to lower mission availability rates. In the 2010s, readiness often hovered around 50-60%. Although the USAF has worked to improve this (reports of 70%+ in late 2010s after reforms), it’s still a maintenance-intensive jet. It requires lots of man-hours per flight hour and sophisticated support equipment. Early on, it needed special care for the stealth skin (though improvements eliminated the need for exclusive climate-controlled hangars, unlike the B-2) slashgear.com. Logistics for the F-22 are also complicated by the fact that some components are no longer in production and the supply chain is thin.
• Multirole Limitations: The Raptor was built mainly for air combat, and although it has been given some ground attack capability, it is not as versatile in multirole operations as newer fighters. It cannot carry a wide array of modern air-to-ground weapons (no anti-ship missiles, no standoff cruise missiles, etc.). It also lacks an infrared targeting pod or the ability to do close-air-support targeting that an F-35 or F-16 with a pod can do. While it can drop JDAMs, it can’t currently do things like lase targets or perform tactical reconnaissance with imaging. This somewhat narrow mission set is a drawback in conflicts where air superiority is quickly achieved and the need shifts to ground support (in such cases, the F-22 either sits idle or must use a fraction of its capability).
• Networking and Comms: The F-22’s proprietary avionics made it initially poor at communications with other platforms. It could only receive Link-16 data and not transmit (to remain stealthy). While there have been improvements (the BACN gateway, new datalinks like IFDL among F-22s and planned integration of secure geolocation messaging), it is still not as “plugged in” as an F-35 which acts as an info hub. This can be a con in a network-centric warfare environment. However, projects are underway to enhance this (like the Rapport 3 and Helmet upgrade programs).
• Lifecycle and Upgrades: With production terminated, the Raptor has an uncertain modernization path. Some upgrades are being done, but major overhauls (like an upgraded engine or a full tech refresh) are unlikely due to cost and the focus on NGAD. This could mean the F-22 gradually loses its edge later in its life if adversaries field newer tech. For example, it has older electronic warfare systems compared to F-35 (though the Increment 3.2B added some EW improvements). Its computing architecture from the 90s is harder to upgrade – contrast with F-35’s open architecture that gets frequent upgrades. So the Raptor might not keep pace indefinitely without significant investment.
• Operational Constraints: The F-22’s stealth means it carries limited internal ordnance. While perfectly sufficient for air-to-air (8 missiles is usually fine), for strike missions carrying just two bombs limits its impact per sortie. It can’t lug heavy payloads unless it foregoes stealth by using external hardpoints (which defeats the purpose in contested airspace). Additionally, each Raptor can only be in one place – sounds obvious, but it means if there are simultaneous needs (CAP here, intercept there), you might be stretched thin with a small fleet. Pilots have to triage mission assignments carefully. Another constraint: the F-22’s advanced tech required lots of security measures – maintenance crews had to be U.S. citizens with clearances, the software encryption is highly protected, etc. This sometimes slowed down deployment or sharing data even within the USAF.
• Past Oxygen Issues: It’s worth noting historically, the F-22 had a spate of hypoxia incidents (~2010-2012) due to its oxygen system, which even led to a temporary fleet grounding. This was a black mark for a while and possibly contributed to one fatal crash. The issue was eventually resolved (fixes to the OBOGS and pilot vests), but it shook confidence for a bit. It showed how cutting-edge systems can have unforeseen problems. Fortunately, no such serious systemic issue persists today.

In weighing these, the pros of the F-22 clearly establish it as a legendary air superiority machine – one that has effectively “owned the sky” wherever it’s been deployed. Its impact on fighter design globally is evident in the rush of other countries to develop stealth fighters to try to close the gap. The cons reflect the realities of developing a first-of-its-kind platform: enormous cost, limited quantity, and a few compromises (like less multirole focus) and lingering upgrade challenges. The Raptor has never been in a shooting war against another fighter – some critics note it’s “over-designed” for a threat (Soviet superfighters) that never materialized, and it has mostly flown air patrols and dropped occasional bombs. Yet, that is arguably a success: its very existence may have deterred potential adversaries from challenging U.S. air dominance in the first place.

In conclusion, the F-22 Raptor stands as a milestone in aviation history – the first operational stealth fighter and a machine that has set performance benchmarks for decades. It excels at its intended purpose of achieving air dominance quickly and decisively. While budget and politics curtailed its numbers and evolution, the Raptors flying today remain a linchpin of U.S. airpower. Lessons from the F-22 program (both its triumphs and troubles) have deeply informed subsequent projects like the F-35 and the upcoming NGAD. For the foreseeable future, an F-22 soaring high with its distinctive diamond-like planform and roar of twin F119 engines is a reassuring sight to friends and a worrisome one to foes – a true king of the skies in the modern era.

Sources: The information in this report is drawn from U.S. Air Force fact sheets and official statements af.mil af.mil, credible defense analysis outlets such as Air & Space Forces Magazine, The Aviationist, and 19FortyFive 19fortyfive.com 19fortyfive.com, as well as Congressional research reports everycrsreport.com and GAO/CRS data on program costs slashgear.com. These sources include firsthand data on F-22 specifications, quotes from fighter pilots, and comparative assessments of global fighter capabilities, providing a well-rounded, factual basis for the comparisons and evaluations above. The consensus across sources is that while newer fighters are narrowing the gap, the F-22 Raptor retains a unique combination of stealth and performance that secures its status as a benchmark for air superiority 19fortyfive.com 19fortyfive.com.