Raptor enters final phase of testing

Posted on: Sep. 7th, 2005 || Source: flightinternational.com | E-mail Article | Print Article

After 19 years of development, the Lockheed Martin/Boeing F/A-22 Raptor has reached the final hurdle before entering service with the US Air Force. Follow-on test and evaluation of the stealth fighter began on 29 August, with the USAF still planning to declare initial operational capability in December.

Follow-on testing involves seven operationally representative Raptors incorporating software and hardware upgrades intended to address deficiencies identified during initial operational test and evaluation earlier this year.

Although rated operationally effective during the initial evaluation, the F/A-22 was judged not to be operationally suitable after it failed to meet the required 85% mission-capable rate because of immature diagnostics and maintenance procedures and parts unreliability. Maintenance of the Raptor’s low-observable characteristics on the flightline was also a concern.

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