12. The USA’s F-22 Raptor
Producer: Boeing, Lockheed Martin
The US Air Force is the main user.
Program Cost (FY2010): $67.3 billion*
$150 million* (flyaway cost for FY2009) is the unit cost.
The US Air Force created the twin-engine, single-seat, all-weather tactical fighter known as the F-22 Raptor. This Lockheed Martin fighter plane has eight test aircraft in addition to its 187 operational aircraft. Production of the F-22 lasted from 1996 to 2011. The Advanced Tactical Fighter Program produced the F-22.
©Everett Collection/Shutterstock/LLockheed Martin F-22 Raptor (USA)
A fighter with air superiority is the F-22. It can also conduct electronic warfare, launch ground attacks, and gather signal intelligence. Boeing produced the training systems, avionics integration, aft fuselage, and wings, while Lockheed constructed the airframe and weaponry. According to the Air Force, the F-22 is essential to both its air combat and tactical airpower capabilities.
Military authorities had originally intended to purchase 750 ATFs. But in 2009, that number was drastically reduced to just 187 aircraft due to prohibitive export duties, exorbitant expenses, and the introduction of the more adaptable F-35. Another reason for a deficiency in air-to-air missions was the postponement of fighter programs in China and Russia.
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