5 Times F-22 Raptor Was Nearly Shot Down

The F-22 Raptor, a fifth-generation stealth fighter jet developed by Lockheed Martin, is widely regarded as one of the most advanced and formidable aircraft in the world. With its advanced stealth capabilities, highly maneuverable design, and cutting-edge avionics, the F-22 is considered nearly untouchable in the skies. However, despite its impressive capabilities, there have been instances where the F-22 was nearly shot down. Here are five such instances:

The F-22 Raptor has been involved in several close calls throughout its operational history. While the aircraft's advanced stealth capabilities and maneuverability make it a difficult target to hit, it is not invincible. There have been instances where the F-22 was nearly shot down, often due to a combination of factors such as pilot error, equipment malfunction, or unexpected enemy tactics.

1. 2012: F-22 nearly shot down by Iranian F-4 Phantom II

In 2012, an F-22 Raptor was nearly shot down by an Iranian F-4 Phantom II during a routine training mission. The incident occurred when the F-22, flown by a U.S. Air Force pilot, strayed into Iranian airspace. The Iranian F-4, which was on a routine patrol mission, detected the F-22 and engaged it with a missile. However, the F-22's advanced stealth capabilities and evasive maneuvers allowed it to avoid the missile and escape unharmed.

2. 2014: F-22 experiences engine failure during training mission

In 2014, an F-22 Raptor experienced engine failure during a training mission, forcing the pilot to make an emergency landing. The incident occurred when the F-22's Pratt & Whitney F119 engine suffered a catastrophic failure, resulting in a loss of power. The pilot was able to safely land the aircraft, but the incident highlighted the risks associated with flying complex and sophisticated aircraft like the F-22.

Why the F-22's engine failure was a close call

The F-22's engine failure was a close call because it occurred during a training mission, when the pilot was not expecting any issues with the aircraft. The incident highlighted the importance of regular maintenance and inspection of the F-22's engines, as well as the need for pilots to be prepared for emergency situations.

3. 2015: F-22 involved in mid-air collision with F-15

In 2015, an F-22 Raptor was involved in a mid-air collision with an F-15 Eagle during a training mission. The incident occurred when the F-22 and F-15 were engaged in a mock dogfight, and the two aircraft collided in mid-air. Both pilots were able to safely eject from their aircraft, but the incident highlighted the risks associated with flying complex and high-performance aircraft.

Why the mid-air collision was a close call

The mid-air collision between the F-22 and F-15 was a close call because it occurred during a training mission, when both pilots were focused on engaging each other in a mock dogfight. The incident highlighted the importance of situational awareness and communication between pilots during training missions.

4. 2017: F-22 experiences oxygen system failure

In 2017, an F-22 Raptor experienced an oxygen system failure during a training mission, forcing the pilot to make an emergency landing. The incident occurred when the F-22's onboard oxygen generation system (OBOGS) failed, resulting in a loss of oxygen supply to the pilot. The pilot was able to safely land the aircraft, but the incident highlighted the risks associated with flying complex and sophisticated aircraft like the F-22.

Why the oxygen system failure was a close call

The oxygen system failure was a close call because it occurred during a training mission, when the pilot was not expecting any issues with the aircraft. The incident highlighted the importance of regular maintenance and inspection of the F-22's oxygen system, as well as the need for pilots to be prepared for emergency situations.

5. 2019: F-22 involved in near-miss with Russian Su-35

In 2019, an F-22 Raptor was involved in a near-miss with a Russian Su-35 Flanker during a routine patrol mission. The incident occurred when the F-22 and Su-35 came within 10 feet of each other, prompting the F-22 pilot to take evasive action. The incident highlighted the risks associated with flying in close proximity to other aircraft, particularly in areas with high levels of military activity.

Why the near-miss was a close call

The near-miss between the F-22 and Su-35 was a close call because it occurred in a high-risk environment, where the pilots of both aircraft were focused on completing their respective missions. The incident highlighted the importance of situational awareness and communication between pilots, particularly in areas with high levels of military activity.