Jane Edwards
Lockheed Martin is reportedly offering to the U.S. Air Force a new version of the F-22 Raptor fighter aircraft that would integrate some structural modifications and avionics from the F-35 jet, Defense One reported Thursday.
A source told the publication the proposed F-22 variant would include the F-35 mission platform and “other advancements in the stealth coatings and things of that nature.â€
The hybrid aircraft is one of the options that Lockheed pitches to the military as the company looks at possible ways to upgrade its fighter jets to help U.S. forces and allies address threats posed by China and Russia, according to individuals familiar with the matter.
Other options the defense contractor currently explores include the potential integration of electronic attack and directed energy technology platforms into F-35, F-22 and F-16 aircraft and changes to F-35’s structure.
The report said Lockheed’s pitch comes as the service assesses its force structure to carry out missions and meet goals in the National Defense Strategy.
