Why The F-35 Is Slower Than The F-22

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Different Roles, Different Characteristics

Even though the F-35 Lightning II came later than the F-22 Raptor doesn’t automatically mean it’s faster. The two fighters fulfill different roles, and their speed requirements reflect those requirements.

F-22s are dedicated air superiority fighters created to engage enemy planes in air-to-air combat. As such, Lockheed gave more importance to its speed and maneuverability, making the Raptor one of the world’s fastest and most maneuverable fighters. 

In comparison, the F-35 was designed to be a multi-role fighter. Its roles include air-to-ground and air-to-air operations, with its primary mission providing air support for ground troops. As a result, the Lightning II focused more on stealth, advanced avionics, and sensor capabilities.

But while the F-35 is slower than the F-22, it is still a highly capable aircraft that can perform a broader range of missions.