Image source: topwar.ru
Polish Internet portal Defence24.pl revealed some of the details of how the U.S. air force are going to constantly upgrade the fighter of the fifth generation F-22A Raptor due to the rapid prototyping of components and annual modifications to the software. The main goal of continuous improvements, as they say in the command of the U.S. air force to maintain dominance in the air, primarily on aircraft of China and Russia, to the commissioning of the sixth generation fighter developed in the framework of Air Dominance (NGAD).
Cyclic program of modernization of the fifth generation fighter F-22 Raptor was codenamed RACR (Raptor Agile Capability Release) and involves about the annual cycles of implementation of each subsequent phase. In the first phase RACR R1, which has been under way for over a year, we have carried out full car modification and made more than 350 hours of test flights. In the course of them worked out as a defensive and offensive tactics against enemy aircraft.
During the first stage of modernization of the system F-22A Raptor was integrated terminal MIDS-JTRS, which provides the modularity of software and devices. With the new system, the fighter can communicate with all types of aircraft, unlike the current version, in which the Raptor could only communicate with aircraft in its class.
Also at this stage were done to test the new display pilot, which allows, in particular, to manage short-range missiles AIM-9X Sidewinter. There are three modifications of helmets with built-in multi-function display, among which the best one will be selected.
The second phase of modifications RACR R2, which has entered a phase of testing will allow the Raptor fighter jets use medium-range missiles AIM-260 JATM. In the future, they should replace the armament of missiles AIM-120 AMRAAM. This will increase the maneuverability, the range of objectives and resistance to BVRAAM missiles. The developers emphasize that the retooling of the American fighter will effectively resist the Chinese J-20 and the Russian su-57, equipped with missiles of a new generation of class "air-air".
Apart from upgrading, a new modification of the F-22A Raptor will be equipped with a passive infrared sensor IRST, allowing for early detection of targets with a low radar signature. This will allow us fighters, being almost unnoticed, as close as possible within range of enemy aircraft.
According to the Polish Internet edition, at the same time held and other improvements, the American fighter. In particular, the development of more easy to operate and maintenance coatings, which reduces radar signature and also open architectural systems exchange data and control arms.
All tests in the framework of the program of modernization of the F-22A Raptor are held at Nellis air force base personnel 422-th test and evaluation squadron, code-named "Green bats". It is assumed that after testing an enhanced version of the fighter, modifications will be implemented on other machines in a period of six months to two years that, according to the U.S. air force must provide a permanent advantage over the enemy in the air.
