The F-22 Raptor

Billed as a fifth-generation supermaneuverable fighter, the F-22 Raptor is a beautiful machine on the ground.  It's stunning to see put though its paces in the air.

The F-22 Raptor (Source:  USAF)

We saw one at the Miramar Air show recently.  It appeared to maneuver in ways that defied the laws of physics and aeronautics - especially making sharp turns that look impossible.

It's stealthy, fast (top speed classified), can turn on a dime and has incredible combat systems.

The Air Force claims the Raptor is superior to any other fighter.  This used to be undebatable.  But the Chinese recently had something else to say about the topic.

The F-22 program was canceled last year.  Only 187 were built.  The more versatile, lower cost and less impressive F-35 Joint Strike Fighter will largely take its place.  We will be largely outgunned by the Chinese, and soon the Russians.

Discuss:  Was the decision short-sighted?  I think so.