New F-22 Upgrades Expected To Prolong Service Life

YouTube / Daily Aviation

The end is near for the iconic F-22 Raptor. But even though the Air Force intends to retire the Raptor within the coming decade, the aircraft is still expected to remain in service until the new NGAD fighter comes out.

Prolonging Service Life

F-22s are expected to receive a few more upgrades to bridge the gap between the fighter and its replacement.

List of Known Upgrades

Among these changes were the new stealthy underwing fuel tanks, pylons, missiles, and infrared search-and-track (IRST) pods. 

F-22 Low Drag Tank and Pylon (LDTP)

The new pylons are equipped with smart rack pneumatic technology to control ejection performance and minimize drag. Meanwhile, the upgraded fuel tanks are designed to eject from the wing and leave a smooth surface behind.

IRST Pods

IRSTs are among the most effective ways of engaging radar-wicking stealth fighters. Its new IRST systems can identify heat signature without broadcasting radar waves that would announce its presence. 

New Missile?

The Raptor might also be able to fire a new and secretive missile called the AIM-260. These air-to-air missiles can reach long distances and are guided by radar.