Built 30 Years Ago, Why The F-22 Raptor Is Still The World's Best Air-To-Air Fighter Jet

Last Updated:September 03, 2025, 18:08 IST

The F-22 Raptor, built by Lockheed Martin, still outperforms the F-35 Lightning II and Russia’s Su-57 in air-to-air combat, remaining the benchmark for aerial supremacy.

India once sought the F-22 but faced export bans and high costs. (AP Photo)

Despite being designed more than two decades ago, the F-22 Raptor continues to dominate the skies in air-to-air combat, outperforming even the most advanced fighters of today – including the F-35 Lightning II and Russia’s Su-57. While the race for next-generation stealth and multi-role capabilities has accelerated globally, military analysts agree that when it comes to air superiority, the F-22 still leads the pack.

First introduced in the 1990s, the F-22 Raptor was built by Lockheed Martin for one purpose: total air dominance. It remains a benchmark in aerial warfare due to its unmatched stealth, supercruise capability, cutting-edge avionics, and a weapons system that can eliminate threats before they even appear on enemy radar.

The aircraft’s radar-evading profile, combined with its supercruise (the ability to fly at supersonic speeds without afterburners), provides it with a crucial edge in dogfights and high-altitude intercepts. Its internal weapons bay allows it to remain stealthy while carrying powerful missiles like the AIM-120 AMRAAM and AIM-9 Sidewinder, designed for both long-range and close-quarters engagements.

F-22 vs F-35

While both the F-22 and F-35 are 5th-generation fighters equipped with stealth and advanced sensors, their core missions differ. The F-35 is technologically advanced and versatile, but cannot compete with the F-22 in air-to-air combat.

The F-35 Lightning II, also developed by Lockheed Martin, is a multi-role stealth fighter optimised for both air-to-air and air-to-ground missions. It carries more modern avionics, enhanced network connectivity, and is designed to integrate with NATO forces across diverse battlefields. However, its air-to-air performance, including speed, agility, and maneuverability, still falls short of the F-22.

In direct aerial combat scenarios, the F-22’s raw dogfighting ability and superior stealth design give it a decisive advantage.

F-22 vs Su-57

Russia’s Su-57 Felon represents its attempt to enter the fifth-generation fighter arena. It combines stealth features with a high-speed thrust-vectoring engine and long-range weapons. Yet, when measured against the F-22, the Su-57 still has ground to cover.

The F-22’s maneuvering and avionics are considered superior to the Su-57. Although the Su-57 boasts impressive capabilities, experts argue its stealth is less refined, and its avionics systems lag behind those of the F-22. More critically, the Su-57’s operational deployment is still limited, whereas the F-22 has amassed years of combat-readiness experience and strategic deployment across multiple theaters.

F-22’s Strategic Edge

The F-22 Raptor is not just an aircraft; it is a strategic force multiplier. Capable of penetrating deep into contested airspace, neutralising enemy aircraft before detection, and sharing tactical data across an air fleet, the Raptor functions as both a hunter and a team leader. If this jet lands in any operation, then devastation is certain for the enemy’s air fleet.

Whether flying solo or operating in sync with other aircraft, the F-22’s presence in a mission ensures aerial dominance. Its advanced radar, jam-resistant communication, and stealth weapon deployment make it the centrepiece of any air superiority operation.

India’s Dream Of Owning F-22

At one point, India had expressed interest in acquiring the F-22 Raptor to modernise its air fleet and gain a qualitative edge in regional air power. However, several roadblocks stood in the way. The F-22 was reportedly made only for US pilots. The US government made a law prohibiting its sale to foreign countries, citing national security and the need to safeguard sensitive technologies, including stealth coatings, radar signatures, and avionics architecture, imposed strict export bans on the F-22. As a result, even close allies were denied access.

Additionally, the F-22 came with a hefty price tag. Estimated at $150 million per unit, its operational and maintenance costs were also exceptionally high. India, seeking technology transfer as part of any deal, found the US unwilling to share its most guarded secrets.

Faced with these constraints, India ultimately turned toward alternatives like the Rafale, Su-30MKI, and indigenous programs such as the Tejas Mk1A, while charting a course for fifth-generation capabilities through the upcoming Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA).

While new-generation jets like the F-35 and Su-57 attract attention for their advanced features and versatility, the F-22 Raptor remains the undisputed champion in air-to-air supremacy. It may be a veteran in an age of new contenders, but when it comes to raw combat power in the sky, the F-22 continues to set the gold standard.

News world Built 30 Years Ago, Why The F-22 Raptor Is Still The World's Best Air-To-Air Fighter Jet

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