F‑22 Raptor’s Explosive 2025: Combat Missions, Big Upgrades & a New Lease on Life
F-22 Raptors from Langley AFB conducted their first direct strikes on Iran’s Fordow and Natanz sites in June 2025 as part of Operation Midnight Hammer, alongside B-2 bombers. A KC-46A tanker suffered a mid-air boom separation while refueling F-22s in July; no damage was reported. Lockheed Martin received a $270 million contract to upgrade F-22 infrared defenses. No F-22 retirements occurred in 2025; the fleet remains at about 185 jets.