General Background 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. The Aircraft In 1986 Northrop and Lockheed Martin were each awarded a demonstration and concept validation contract. The Lockheed YF-22 won over Northrop's YF-23. The YF-22 first flew on September 29, 1990 with the flight of the first production F-22 “Raptor” taking place on September 7, 1997. This aircraft was number 91-4001 with a serial of 91-001 and named “Spirit of America”. In October 1997 91-001 went to Edwards AFB in California for testing. What started with 91-001 will end in 2013 when the last planned 438th F-22 is delivered. (HA2811B)