Raptor
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A Russian Tu-95 bomber (top) was intercepted Tuesday night by a U.S. F-22 Raptor fighter off the coast of Alaska. Russian nuclear-capable strategic bombers have been demonstrating long-range strike capability. (North American Aerospace Defense Command via Associated Press)
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Lockheed Martin F-22 Raptor is a fifth-generation, single-seat, twin-engine, all-weather stealth tactical fighter aircraft developed for the United States Air Force. The result of the USAF's Advanced Tactical Fighter program, the aircraft was designed primarily as an air superiority fighter, but also has ground attack, electronic warfare, and signal intelligence capabilities.[6] The prime contractor, Lockheed Martin, built most of the F-22's airframe and weapons systems and conducted final assembly, while Boeing provided the wings, aft fuselage, avionics integration, and training systems. The aircraft was variously designated F-22 and F/A-22 before it formally entered service in December 2005 as the F-22A. After a protracted development and despite operational issues, the USAF considered the F-22 critical to its tactical air power. When the aircraft was introduced, the USAF stated that the aircraft was unmatched by any known or projected fighter. The Raptor's combination of stealth, aerodynamic performance, and situational awareness gives the aircraft unprecedented air combat capabilities. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Brittany A. Chase)
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An F-22 Raptor maneuvers after being in-air refueled by a KC-135 Stratotanker April 25, 2014, over the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility. The F-22 is an advanced capability that can be provided to the Combined Forces Air Component Commander within the region to enhance missions supporting stability and security. Since 2009, the Air Force has frequently deployed the F-22 to the Pacific and multiple times to Southwest Asia. (U.S. Air Force photo/Staff Sgt. Vernon Young Jr.)
