In early 2022, an F-22 Raptor from the 411th Test and Evaluation Squadron was seen flying at Edwards Air Force Base with unusual pods mounted under its wings. The pods’ angular shape suggests a stealthy design to help maintain the Raptor’s low radar signature. While the exact function of these pods remains speculative, it is likely they house an infrared search and track sensor (IRST). This system would enable the F-22 to detect and track other aircraft, including stealthy ones, at long ranges. Being completely passive and immune to electronic warfare, this capability was initially planned for the F-22 but was eventually dropped due to cost concerns. Designed to meet a US Air Force requirement for an Advanced Tactical Fighter (ATF) to replace the F-15 Eagle, the F-22 was first flown on September 29th, 1990. The USAF’s ATF program aimed to produce a fifth-generation air superiority fighter that would be better matched against emerging new aircraft such as the Su-27 Flanker. The F-22 uses stealth technology and can function in air superiority, ground attack, intelligence and electronic warfare roles. Despite its capabilities, the F-22 program was relatively short-lived; by 2010 its high cost coupled with the development of the F-35 (a more versatile and less expensive aircraft) led to a cessation of F-22 production funding.
