It’s hard not to compare them. The F-22 Raptor vs. F-35 Lightning II debate has been going on since both jets entered service. They’re two of the most advanced fighter jets in the world. Both are fifth-generation aircraft developed in the U.S., built with stealth in mind, but not designed for the same job. With the F-35 Lightning II Demo Team set to perform at this year’s Abbotsford International Airshow, now is the perfect time to take a closer look at how it compares to the F-22 Raptor. 

First, an Overview

The F-22 Raptor was developed jointly by Lockheed Martin and Boeing as part of the U.S. Air Force’s Advanced Tactical Fighter (ATF) program, and has been flying since 1997. It was designed for a superior aerial combat performance. It’s incredibly fast, stealthy, and agile, and it’s been a key part of the U.S. Air Force aircraft fleet for almost two decades. 

With only around 180 units built and no exports allowed due to its classified technology, its footprint has remained relatively small. Even though the F-22 Raptor production was stopped in 2011, the Air Force keeps releasing aircraft updates.

On the other hand, the Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II came along a bit later under the Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) program, aiming to produce a versatile multirole fighter. It made its first flight in 2006, joined active service in 2015, and is used by multiple countries. 

Built to take on a wide range of missions, from surveillance to strike operations, it’s loaded with the latest stealth aircraft technology and advanced sensors. With over 1,150 aircraft delivered worldwide and more than a million flight hours logged, the F-35 Lightning II has become the most widely adopted fifth-generation fighter jet globally.

The Key Differences Between the F-22 Raptor and the F-35 Lightning II

Speed & Agility
The F-22 Raptor’s capabilities in speed and climb rate are almost unrivalled. With a top speed around Mach 2.25 and a superior climb rate, it outpaces the F-35, which maxes out around Mach 1.6. This makes the Raptor better suited for intercept missions and traditional dogfights.

The F-35 isn’t as fast, but it was never meant to be. It’s designed to be a multirole platform with enhanced electronics, sensors, and adaptability.

Stealth and Sensors
Both jets are designed to avoid detection, but their strengths vary. When it comes to the comparison of the F-22 Raptor vs. F-35 Lightning II, the latter presents more advanced systems for detecting and tracking air and land targets, using cutting-edge Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar and Electro-Optical Targeting System (EOTS), giving it an edge in long-range situational awareness.

Weaponry and Versatility
When comparing armaments, the F-35 offers more versatility. The F-22 is a pure fighter, best at winning air battles. The F-35 can do that too, but it’s also built for air-to-ground missions, surveillance, and more. That means it plays a larger role in day-to-day military operations.

Operational Capabilities
The F-35 Lightning II is part of a vast global fleet with allied forces across 26+ bases. The F-22 Raptor, while still elite, operates only within the U.S., which has limited its broader deployment.

Altitude and Reach
The F-22 Raptor can fly above 60,000 feet, giving it a height advantage in combat. The F-35 Lightning II, reaching around 50,000 feet, sacrifices some altitude for its broader mission flexibility.

Raptor vs Lightning Analysis

The F-22 Raptor vs. F-35 Lightning II debate is unmatched when it comes to controlling the skies with its speed and agility.

The F-35 Lightning II, however, brings a different strength to the fight. It’s designed to handle multiple tasks, such as striking ground targets, collecting intelligence, and coordinating with other forces through advanced communication systems. While it may not outperform the F-22 in a dogfight, its ability to adapt to complex, modern battlefields makes it invaluable.

A Final Comparison

So, which one comes out on top in the fighter jet comparison? There’s no simple answer. Each aircraft plays a critical role in modern military aviation, whether it’s the F-22’s air superiority or the F-35 Lightning II features that make it more versatile and adaptable to modern combat environments.

If you’re curious about what all this looks like in real life, the Abbotsford International Airshow is the place to be. From August 8 to 10, you’ll see the F-35 Lightning II in action, along with many other aircraft.