1/72 SCALE
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
On September 26, 2003 the first operational F-22 Raptor # 01-4018 was delivered to the USAF. Raptor 18 is assigned to the 43rd FS stationed at Tyndall AFB, Florida. Deactivated in 1994 the 43rd FS was re-activated on October 25, 2002 and was assigned to the 325th Fighter Wing, Air Education and Training Command. There role will be to provide air dominance training for the F-22 Raptor. The 43rd can trace its beginnings back to the 43rd Provisional Squadron of 1917.
