The Upgraded F-22 Raptor: Enhancing Air Supremacy

TLDRThe Air Force's upgraded F-22 Raptor, featuring stealth external fuel tanks and outboard sensor pods, is set to maintain air supremacy until the next generation air dominance fighter emerges. The low drag tank and pylon program aims to increase the Raptor's range without compromising its stealth profile by using stealth underwing fuel drop tanks. This technology could also be applied to the F-35 and potentially carry weapons externally. The upgrades are expected to cost over 16 billion dollars, ensuring the F-22's continued dominance on the world stage.

Key insights

📱The F-22 Raptor's immense power output, with or without afterburner, gives it a unique advantage in air combat.

📓The F-22's low combat radius due to fuel consumption is being addressed by the low drag tank and pylon program, introducing stealthy external fuel tanks.

🤠The F-22's upgraded capabilities will bridge the gap between current and future sixth-generation fighters.

🎮The low drag tank and pylon program could potentially be applied to the F-35, allowing for increased range without compromising stealthiness.

🌊The upgrades for the F-22 Raptor are part of a larger effort to maintain air supremacy until the next generation air dominance fighter, the NGAD, emerges.

Q&A

What is the purpose of the low drag tank and pylon program?

The low drag tank and pylon program aims to increase the range of the F-22 Raptor without compromising its stealth profile by using stealthy external fuel drop tanks.

What advantages does the F-22 Raptor have over other fighters?

The F-22 Raptor's immense power output, advanced stealth capabilities, and unmatched maneuverability give it a significant advantage over other fighters.

Will the upgrades for the F-22 be applied to the F-35 as well?

If successful, the low drag tank and pylon program could be applied to the F-35, allowing for increased range without compromising the aircraft's stealthiness.

What is the cost of the F-22 upgrades?

The f-22 upgrades are expected to cost over 16 billion dollars.

When is the expected retirement of the F-22 Raptor?

The F-22 Raptor is expected to retire in the coming decade as the Air Force develops the next generation air dominance fighter, the NGAD.

Timestamped Summary

00:05An image was posted that resembles the official renders of the upgraded F-22 Raptor.

00:56The F-22 Raptor is sponsored by World of Warships, a naval warfare-themed game.

02:46The F-22 Raptor's upgrades aim to maintain air supremacy until the next generation air dominance fighter, the NGAD, is developed.

04:10The decision to retire the F-22 Raptor was made due to its short production run and the need for a replacement.

06:32The low drag tank and pylon program is expected to extend the F-22's range without compromising its stealth profile.

08:50The F-22's immense power output without afterburner makes it one of the most capable air superiority fighters.

11:58The F-22's upgrades include the low drag tank and pylon program, which could have implications for future stealth fighters.

13:37The low drag tank and pylon program could potentially be used on the F-35, increasing its combat radius.