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.
F-22A 04-4065 was delivered in 2006 and is the first of two aircraft belonging to the 422 Test and Evaluation Squadron (TES) that have been seen wearing a special mirror-like finish. The coating on the first aircraft appears to be comprised of larger mirror tiles than the second aircraft. The first sighting of 04-4065 took place on November 19, 2021 at Nellis AFB and the second, 04-4070 on March 17, 2022. As to the purpose of this new covering, there is only speculation at this point. Stealth?
