DefenseLockheed Martin launches production of redesigned external tanks for F-22
Lockheed Martin has begun production of a new generation of low-observable external fuel tanks for the F-22 Raptor, designed to extend the aircraft’s range without compromising its stealth characteristics or aerodynamic performance.
According to Flight Global, which cited comments from Lockheed officials at the 2026 Air & Space Forces Association Warfare Symposium in Denver, the company moved into production after completing what it described as significant flight testing of the new tanks.
The redesigned external tanks are intended to replace the F-22’s current wing-mounted drop tanks. While the existing tanks increase operating radius, they significantly affect the jet’s radar signature and aerodynamic performance, requiring pilots to jettison them before entering combat.
Lockheed says the new tanks are designed to remain attached during combat operations. Although they can still be dropped if necessary, the concept is to retain them throughout the mission and recover them after landing, marking a departure from the current configuration primarily used for long-range ferry flights.
Both the legacy and new tanks provide an additional 850 nautical miles (1,570 km) of range. The U.S. Air Force lists the F-22’s unrefueled combat radius at approximately 590 nautical miles.
The company also displayed wing-mounted sensor pods alongside the new tanks at the symposium. Lockheed said the pods are designed to preserve the aircraft’s low-observable profile and flight performance. Together, the external tanks and sensor pods form what company officials described as a “Raptor 2.0” configuration.
The U.S. Air Force operates 184 F-22s and is expected to keep the aircraft in frontline service into at least the 2040s. The modernization effort comes as the service prepares for the eventual introduction of its next-generation fighter, while maintaining the Raptor against peer threats, including China’s Chengdu J-20 and Russia’s Sukhoi Su-57.
FlightGlobal also reported that the F-22 is being integrated with emerging Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA). In recent demonstrations, an F-22 controlled a General Atomics MQ-20 uncrewed jet in flight, issuing tasking instructions without altering the Raptor’s observable signature. Budget documents for fiscal year 2026 include funding to improve F-22 compatibility with the Link 16 data network to support CCA operations.
Lockheed is under contract to deliver the new low-drag tanks for all Block 30/35 F-22s and has established a production line, with deliveries expected in the near term.
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