Length: 10.25"
Width: 7.5"
The USAF developed a requirement for a new air superiority fighter to replace the F-15 Eagle.
Two proposals were submitted with the Lockheed Martin F-22 Raptor being selected as the new
Advanced Tactical Fighter (ATF). The aircraft is constructed using 39% titanium, 24% composite
material, 16% aluminum and 1% thermoplastic by weight. All these components contribute to the
F-22 being a light weight, extremely maneuverable, extremely fast aircraft that uses stealth
technology. The F-22 is also capable of ground attack, electronic warfare and signals intelligence.
Lockheed F-22A Raptor c/n 4132 was delivered to the USAF on December 22, 2009 with a serial
of 06-132 painted on it even though the correct serial is 07-4132. There have been many theories
as to why the difference in numbers and one is this aircraft was on a separate contract as a
"replacement test aircraft". Another is since 132 had been held back for testing and data
gathering it affected the serial.