Intro
Compare the F-35 Lightning and F-22 Raptor in this in-depth analysis. Discover the 5 key differences between these two stealth fighter jets, including their design, capabilities, and operational roles. Learn how the F-35s multirole functionality and advanced sensors differ from the F-22s air superiority focus and cutting-edge propulsion system.
The F-35 Lightning II and the F-22 Raptor are two of the most advanced fighter jets in the world, developed by the United States for its military. Both aircraft are designed to perform a variety of tasks, including air-to-air combat, air-to-ground strikes, and reconnaissance. However, despite their similarities, there are several key differences between the two aircraft.
One of the main differences between the F-35 and the F-22 is their design and purpose. The F-22 Raptor is a fifth-generation, twin-engine, stealth tactical fighter aircraft designed for air superiority and air defense. It is primarily designed to engage enemy aircraft and air defenses in dogfighting scenarios. On the other hand, the F-35 Lightning II is a multirole fighter, designed to perform a variety of tasks including air-to-air combat, air-to-ground strikes, and reconnaissance.
Design and Stealth Capabilities
The F-22 Raptor has a more traditional fighter jet design, with a long, curved fuselage and swept wings. Its shape and radar-absorbing materials make it highly stealthy, allowing it to evade detection by enemy radar systems. In contrast, the F-35 Lightning II has a more angular design, with a shorter fuselage and straight wings. While it is also stealthy, its design is more focused on versatility and the ability to carry a wide range of payloads.
Stealth Capabilities Comparison
- F-22 Raptor: Radar cross-section (RCS) of approximately 0.0001 square meters
- F-35 Lightning II: RCS of approximately 0.001 square meters
Engine and Performance
The F-22 Raptor is powered by two Pratt & Whitney F119-PW-100 engines, each producing 35,000 pounds of thrust. In contrast, the F-35 Lightning II is powered by a single Pratt & Whitney F135 engine, producing 22,000 pounds of thrust. However, the F-35 also has a variant with a General Electric F136 engine, producing 24,000 pounds of thrust.
Performance Comparison
- F-22 Raptor:
- Top speed: Mach 2.25 (approximately 1,700 mph)
- Range: 1,600 nautical miles (approximately 1,850 miles)
- F-35 Lightning II:
- Top speed: Mach 1.6 (approximately 1,200 mph)
- Range: 1,200 nautical miles (approximately 1,400 miles)
Avionics and Radar Systems
Both the F-22 Raptor and the F-35 Lightning II have advanced avionics and radar systems. However, the F-22 Raptor has a more advanced radar system, the AN/APG-77, which is capable of detecting and tracking multiple targets simultaneously. The F-35 Lightning II has the AN/APG-81 radar system, which is also highly advanced but not quite as capable as the F-22's system.
Avionics Comparison
- F-22 Raptor:
- AN/APG-77 radar system
- Advanced sensors and targeting systems
- F-35 Lightning II:
- AN/APG-81 radar system
- Advanced sensors and targeting systems, including the Electro-Optical Targeting System (EOTS)
Price and Production
The F-22 Raptor is a more expensive aircraft, with a unit cost of approximately $150 million. The F-35 Lightning II is also expensive, but less so, with a unit cost of approximately $80 million.
Production Comparison
- F-22 Raptor: 187 aircraft produced
- F-35 Lightning II: Over 500 aircraft produced, with many more on order
Conclusion
The F-35 Lightning II and the F-22 Raptor are both highly advanced fighter jets, each with its own unique strengths and weaknesses. While the F-22 Raptor is a more traditional air superiority fighter, the F-35 Lightning II is a more versatile multirole fighter. Ultimately, the choice between the two aircraft will depend on the specific needs of the military and the mission requirements.
F35 Lightning II and F22 Raptor Image Gallery
What is the main difference between the F-35 Lightning II and the F-22 Raptor?
+The main difference between the F-35 Lightning II and the F-22 Raptor is their design and purpose. The F-22 Raptor is a fifth-generation, twin-engine, stealth tactical fighter aircraft designed for air superiority and air defense. The F-35 Lightning II is a multirole fighter, designed to perform a variety of tasks including air-to-air combat, air-to-ground strikes, and reconnaissance.
Which aircraft has a more advanced radar system?
+The F-22 Raptor has a more advanced radar system, the AN/APG-77, which is capable of detecting and tracking multiple targets simultaneously.
Which aircraft is more expensive?
+The F-22 Raptor is more expensive, with a unit cost of approximately $150 million. The F-35 Lightning II has a unit cost of approximately $80 million.