Lockheed Martin Rolls Out Final F-22 Raptor

photo flightglobal.com

December 14, 2011 defense-aerospace.com

(Source: Lockheed Martin Aeronautics Company; issued December 13, 2011)

MARIETTA, Ga. --- The final Lockheed Martin F-22 Raptor rolled off the assembly line here today and was commemorated with a ceremony recognizing contributions from thousands of people associated with the design and construction of the Raptor fleet.

This F-22 Raptor (Lockheed Martin tail number 4195) now moves into production flight check and will deliver to the U.S. Air Force in 2012, completing the operational fleet at 187 jets.

"This event honors the many men and women of Team Raptor who have taken this plane from concept to reality," said Jeff Babione, vice president and general manager for Lockheed Martin's F-22 program. "For the last 17 years, regardless of the challenges, they always remained singularly focused, delivering the world's greatest fighter. Each Raptor – from the first jet to last jet – is a reflection of the dedication, hard work and professionalism of our workforce."

Operational F-22s are based at Langley Air Force Base, Va.; Elmendorf AFB, Alaska; Holloman AFB, N.M.; and Hickam AFB, Hawaii. Air Force F-22 units have deployed to Kadena Air Base, Japan, and Andersen AFB, Guam, as part of rotational deployments designed to enhance security in the Pacific theater. The Raptor has conducted joint and coalition training both stateside and overseas in locations including the United Arab Emirates.

Lockheed Martin partners with the Air Force to ensure Raptor availability, performance and reliability, and to enhance the aircraft's capabilities to keep it ahead of emerging and proliferating threats.