F-22 Raptor: Evaluating a $67 Billion Program on a Combat Record of Unmanned Balloons

The U.S. Air Force's F-22 Raptor program cost $67 billion to produce 187 combat-coded stealth fighters designed for air superiority. To date, the advanced jet's only air-to-air victories have been against three high-altitude objects in 2023, including a Chinese surveillance balloon. These engagements were the first combat kills for the F-22, which used AIM-9X Sidewinder missiles for the shootdowns. Despite the lack of combat against enemy aircraft, the article argues the Raptor's primary value is its role as a deterrent. Its unmatched capabilities effectively prevent potential adversaries from challenging U.S. air dominance, justifying its existence beyond a simple kill count.

Official Source: https://www.19fortyfive.com/2026/09/the-air-force-built-195-f-22-raptor-stealth-fighters-at-350000000-each-they-have-just-3-air-to-air-kills-and-not-one-was-an-aircraft/

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