F-22 Raptor vs. F-35 Lightning II: The Ultimate Aerial Showdown

F-22 Raptor vs. F-35 Lightning II Key Takeaways:

• When it comes to speed, the F-22 reigns supreme. With a top speed exceeding Mach 2, it outpaces the F-35, which reaches a maximum speed of Mach 1.6.
• The F-35 Lightning II comes in three distinct variants tailored to meet the unique requirements of various military branches.

F-22 Raptor vs. F-35 Lightning II on your mind?

Here, we’ll review 11 cool tidbits about the F-22 Raptor and F-35 Lightning II and more.

So enjoy the entertaining read!

F-22 Raptor vs F-35 Lightning II: 11 Differences Explained

Role and Purpose

The F-22 Raptor, a fifth-generation fighter jet, is primarily designed for air superiority. It excels in air-to-air combat, making it an effective tool for maintaining control of the skies. The F-35 Lightning II, on the other hand, is a multi-role fighter. It’s designed to perform a variety of missions, including air-to-air combat and ground attack.

Speed and Maneuverability

When it comes to speed, the F-22 takes the lead. Its top rate exceeds Mach 2, faster than the F-35’s top speed of Mach 1.6. Both aircraft are highly maneuverable, but the F-22’s thrust-vectoring engines give it a slight edge in dogfights.

Stealth Capabilities

Both the F-22 and F-35 are stealth aircraft designed to evade enemy radar and carry out missions undetected. However, their stealth capabilities differ. The F-22’s design focuses more on air-to-air stealth, whereas the F-35 has been optimized for air-to-ground stealth.

Sensors and Avionics

The F-35 boasts more advanced sensor technology than the F-22. Its sensor fusion system collects and integrates data from various sources, providing the pilot with a comprehensive battlefield picture. This makes the F-35 a superior choice for reconnaissance and surveillance missions.

Armament

The F-22 carries air-to-air missiles in internal bays to maintain its stealth profile. It can also carry air-to-ground weapons, but this compromises its stealth capabilities. The F-35, on the other hand, can have a more comprehensive array of weapons, including air-to-air, air-to-ground, and anti-ship missiles.

Range

The F-22 Raptor has a greater range than the F-35, capable of flying further without refueling. This extended range allows the F-22 to conduct long-range interception missions.

Size and Appearance

Visually, the F-22 Raptor is more prolonged and taller than the F-35, with a larger wingspan. Despite being smaller, the F-35 packs a similar punch in terms of firepower and capabilities.

Cost

The F-35 program, despite its multi-role functionality, is more cost-effective than the F-22 program. The F-35 is also easier and cheaper to maintain, making it a more sustainable choice for the US military.

Production

Production of the F-22 Raptor ended in 2011, whereas the F-35 is still in production. The F-35 will likely become more prevalent in the United States military and allied forces.

Versatility

The F-35 Lightning II is available in three different variants to suit the needs of different military branches. This includes a variant capable of vertical take-off and landing.

Future Outlook

Given the ongoing production and development of the F-35, its cost-effectiveness, and versatility, it’s likely that the F-35 will play a larger role in future military operations. On the other hand, the F-22, though no longer in production, will continue to serve as a formidable air superiority fighter for years.

While the F-22 Raptor and F-35 Lightning II have different roles and capabilities, they represent the cutting-edge of fifth-generation fighter technology. Each jet has strengths, forming a potent combination for the US Air Force.

F-22 Raptor vs. F-35 Lightning II FAQ

Could the F-22 beat the F-35?

The F-22 Raptor is a fifth-generation air-superiority fighter designed for dominating the skies. At the same time, the Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II is a fifth-generation multi-role fighter jet designed for various missions, including ground attack. The F-22 can cruise at supersonic speeds and has a higher top speed of Mach 1.6, making it faster than the F-35. However, in a direct dogfight, the F-35 features advanced stealth technology that could give it an edge. Despite these differences, both aircraft are two of the most advanced fighter jets in the world.

Who would win in a dogfight, F-22 Raptor vs. F-35?

In a dogfight, the F-22 Raptor has a higher chance of winning due to its superior maneuverability and speed compared to the F-35. The F-22 is explicitly designed as an air superiority fighter with advanced stealth technology. In contrast, the F-35 is designed as a jack-of-all-trades, capable of air-to-air combat and excelling in ground attack missions. However, one must consider the tactical situation and pilot skill, which can significantly affect the outcome.

Is the F-35 Lightning II better than the SU 57?

The F-35 Lightning II and the SU-57 are two advanced military jets developed by the United States and Russia, respectively. While the SU-57 features advanced stealth technology like the F-22 and F-35, the F-35 is considered to have more advanced sensor systems and network integration. This makes the F-35 potentially more effective in modern warfare scenarios where information sharing and situational awareness are key. However, direct comparisons are difficult due to the two aircraft’s different design philosophies and intended roles.

How big is the F-22 compared to the F-35?

The F-22 Raptor is slightly larger than the F-35 Lightning II. The F-22 has a length of 62 feet and a wingspan of 44.5 feet, compared to the F-35’s length of 51.4 feet and wingspan of 35 feet. Despite the size difference, the F-22 and F-35 feature advanced stealth technology. They are among the most advanced fighter aircraft in the world.

Has the F-22 ever shot down anything?

As of (8/26/2023), there are no public records of the F-22 Raptor shooting down any enemy aircraft in combat. It’s important to note that the mission of the F-22 is not just to shoot down other aircraft but also to establish air superiority and carry out precision ground attacks when required.

F-22 Raptor vs. F-35 Lightning II Conclusion

The F-22 Raptor vs. F-35 Lightning II debate may never truly be settled, but one thing is sure: they are two of the most advanced fighter jets in the world. Both stealth fighters and these Lockheed Martin aircraft represent a pinnacle of fifth-generation fighter jet design. The F-22 is a dedicated air superiority tactical fighter built for speed and agility. It’s faster than the F-35, and its design allows it to carry out its missions with lethal precision. On the other hand, the F-35 is a stealth multi-role combat aircraft, easier to fly, and designed for a broader range of missions, making it more versatile than the F-22.

Each aircraft brings unique strengths to the table. The F-22 Raptor is a fifth-generation fighter that excels in air-to-air combat. It’s built for speed and agility, able to outmaneuver many other jets worldwide. The F-35 Lightning II is also a fifth-generation fighter. Still, it’s designed to excel in air-to-air and air-to-ground combat. This makes the F-35 a more versatile choice, capable of handling various tactical situations. The design of these two aircraft reflects their differing roles, with the F-22’s sleek, streamlined shape contrasting with the F-35’s more robust, multi-role build.

Regarding the cost of an aircraft, the F-35 also has an edge. It’s cheaper to produce and maintain, making it a more economical choice for many nations. However, the F-22 can carry a larger payload, offering greater firepower in combat situations. The F-22 and F-35 are designed to engage with aircraft and ground targets, demonstrating their flexibility and strategic value. Ultimately, whether the F-35 is better than the F-22 or vice versa depends on the user’s specific requirements and mission profiles. Like all great tools, these exceptional jets are best when used correctly.