U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin stated via the platform "X" that he had a phone call with Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant on Thursday, discussing U.S. actions in the Middle East to defend Israel and the ceasefire in Gaza. In a post, Austin mentioned that "the U.S. F-22 Raptor aircraft that arrived in the region today represent one of many efforts to deter aggression, defend Israel, and protect U.S. forces in the region." He also emphasized the importance of reaching a ceasefire agreement in Gaza that would free hostages. A senior U.S. official warned that Iran would face "serious" consequences if it decided to attack Israel, adding that such an action would escalate tensions and undermine any hopes for a ceasefire in the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
**Facts About the U.S. F-22 Aircraft**
The U.S. F-22 Raptor has demonstrated highly skilled performance, such as the downing of a Chinese spy balloon. It has also changed the combat equation on battlefields against ISIS. The "F-22 Raptor" combines stealth, super speed, and high maneuverability, standing at the pinnacle of modern U.S. military technology as a symbol of power and absolute air dominance.
**Advanced Tactical Fighter**
The F-22 Raptor first flew with the prototype YF-22 on September 29, 1990, as part of the U.S. Air Force’s advanced tactical fighter competition. In 1997, the world witnessed the first test flight of the F-22, and it entered operational service for the first time in 2006. In 2014, the aircraft made a significant impact in battle during operations against ISIS as part of Operation Inherent Resolve in Syria and Iraq. Its most notable achievement in air combat was the successful downing of a Chinese spy balloon off the coast of North Carolina on February 3, 2023.
**By the Numbers**
With a maximum takeoff weight of 83,500 pounds, the F-22 is powered by two engines producing thrust of 35,000 pounds each, enabling the aircraft to reach a speed of Mach 2 with supercruise capability. The F-22 Raptor can fly up to 1,850 miles using external fuel tanks, and its range increases further with in-flight refueling. It is equipped with an internal M61A2 20mm cannon with a capacity of 480 rounds, along with two AIM-9 Sidewinder missiles. The F-22 Raptor can carry six AIM-120 AMRAAM missiles or a combination of two AIM-120 missiles and two GBU-32 JDAM bombs, or eight SDB bombs in its main weapons bay, providing it with high combat flexibility for various missions.
**Extraordinary Capabilities**
This fighter jet is designed to engage multiple targets, making it a key component of the U.S. Air Force's strategy in the Asia-Pacific region. Features of the aircraft include an advanced flight control system and powerful thrust engine that allows for maximum maneuverability. The cockpit consists of six color LCD display screens and an AESA radar of type APG-77. Among its engineering marvels, the F-22 Raptor is equipped with an electronic warfare system, missile launch detection capability, and advanced communication and navigation links.
