Why the US Can’t Build New F-22 Raptors

The F-22 Raptor, a fifth-generation fighter jet, is widely considered one of the most capable aircraft ever built. Its stealth capabilities, advanced avionics, and superior maneuverability make it a formidable adversary in aerial combat. However, despite its impressive capabilities, the US Air Force has not produced new F-22 Raptors since 2011. This begs the question: why can’t the US build new F-22s?

The answer is multifaceted and involves a complex interplay of factors. Here are some of the key reasons:

Prohibitive Cost

The F-22 Raptor is an incredibly expensive aircraft to build. When production was halted in 2011, the unit cost of an F-22 was estimated to be around $150 million. Today, with inflation and the need to retool production lines, the cost would likely be significantly higher. The US Air Force is already facing budgetary constraints, and allocating billions of dollars to a new F-22 production line would be difficult to justify, especially given the availability of other, potentially more cost-effective options.

Long Lead Times

Reviving the F-22 production line would require significant time and effort. The specialized manufacturing facilities, skilled labor force, and complex supply chain would need to be reestablished. This process could take several years, during which time the US Air Force would be unable to acquire new F-22s. In the rapidly evolving world of military technology, a multi-year delay could render the F-22 obsolete by the time new jets are available.

Technological Obsolescence

While the F-22 remains a capable aircraft, it was designed and built in the late 1990s and early 2000s. Since then, significant advancements have been made in military technology, particularly in the areas of stealth, sensor capabilities, and electronic warfare. While the F-22 could be upgraded to address some of these advancements, it is unlikely to match the capabilities of newer, sixth-generation fighters being developed by adversaries.

Focus on Next-Generation Fighters

The US Air Force is currently focused on developing and fielding the next generation of fighter jets, such as the F-35 and the NGAD (Next Generation Air Dominance) program. These aircraft are designed to address the evolving threats of the 21st century, incorporating advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence, hypersonic capabilities, and improved stealth features. Investing in these next-generation platforms is seen as a more strategic and cost-effective approach than reviving the F-22 production line.

Political Considerations

The decision to halt F-22 production was also influenced by political considerations. The US Air Force has argued that the F-35, a more versatile and affordable aircraft, is better suited to meet the needs of the modern military. However, some lawmakers have expressed concerns about the F-35’s performance and reliability, leading to ongoing debates about the future of the program. The political landscape surrounding fighter jet acquisition can further complicate the decision-making process.

Conclusion

While the F-22 Raptor remains a formidable aircraft, the US is unlikely to resume production of new jets. The prohibitive cost, long lead times, technological obsolescence, and focus on next-generation fighters make it a less attractive option compared to other available alternatives. The US Air Force is committed to maintaining a strong and modern air force, and its focus on developing and fielding advanced aircraft such as the F-35 and NGAD will continue to shape the future of airpower.