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DTIC ADA477749: F-22 Raptor Aircraft Program

The F-22 Raptor is a next-generation fighter-attack aircraft using the latest stealth technology to reduce detection by radar. Equipped with more advanced engines and avionics than the current F-15, the F-22 is expected to maintain U.S. Air Force capabilities against more sophisticated aircraft and missiles in the 21st century. In 1986 two contractors were selected to build competing prototypes: Lockheed's YF-22 and Northrop's YF-23, which were flight tested in late 1990. In April 1991, the Air Force selected Lockheed's YF-22 design for full-scale development. The aircraft is powered by Pratt & Whitney's F119 engine, selected in competition with General Electric's F120 engine. If produced as projected, F-22s could begin replacing F-15s after 2005. The Administration's FY2002 budget requested almost $4.8 billion for the F-22 program in procurement and development funds. Through FY2000, Congress provided some $22.8 billion for the F-22. A 341-aircraft program was estimated in June 2000 to cost about $61.9 billion in actual prior-year and projected out-year expenditures. The F-22 program raises questions about its cost and the need for this aircraft, the capabilities it would have, an

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