The F-22 Raptor and F-35 Lightning II are America’s premier fifth-generation stealth fighters, but they serve very different roles in 2025. The F-22, designed for unmatched air superiority, delivers speed, agility, and stealth dominance but remains exclusive to the U.S. Air Force with limited production. In contrast, the F-35 is a multi-role stealth fighter, widely exported to allies, with advanced sensor fusion, electronic warfare capabilities, and ongoing Block 4 upgrades. This side-by-side comparison highlights the top differences in missions, technology, performance, and production status of the F-22 vs F-35, showing how both aircraft complement U.S. and allied airpower.
| Feature / Category | F-22 Raptor | F-35 Lightning II |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Role | Air Superiority Fighter | Multi-Role Stealth Fighter (air-to-air, air-to-ground, electronic warfare) |
| First Flight | 1997 | 2006 |
| Production Status | Ended in 2012 (187 built) | Ongoing, over 1,000 delivered by 2025 |
| Export Availability | Not exported (U.S. only) | Widely exported to allies (NATO, Indo-Pacific) |
| Engines | 2 × Pratt & Whitney F119 | 1 × Pratt & Whitney F135 |
| Speed | Mach 2.0+ (supercruise capable) | Mach 1.6 (limited supercruise) |
| Combat Radius | ~460 miles (air-to-air mission) | ~670 miles (air-to-ground strike mission) |
| Stealth Design | Optimized for air dominance, minimal radar cross-section | Multi-spectral stealth with sensor fusion |
| Avionics & Sensors | Advanced radar (AN/APG-77), less open architecture | Advanced sensor fusion, DAS, Helmet-Mounted Display |
| Upgrade Path | Limited modernization (sensors, avionics, EW updates) | Continuous Block 4 upgrades (new weapons, EW, software enhancements) |
| Operational Users | U.S. Air Force only | U.S. and 17+ partner nations |
| Replacement Program | Next Generation Air Dominance (NGAD) in 2030s | Will remain in production into 2040s |