New configuration enables extended range without sacrificing low observability

F-22, F-35, F-15E, B-2 and E-3 aircraft among assets deployed alongside two carrier strike groups

About a dozen F-22 Raptors supported the January 3 Caracas mission and have since returned to the US

Test demonstrates AMRAAM's extended range and supports upcoming Dutch acquisition of up to 232 units for F-35A fleet

The US president said that the country is studying a twin-engine F-35 and also an upgrade of the Raptor, surprising observers

Fleet is expected to be below 5,000 aircraft with the possible retirement of F-22, F-15 and F-16 fighters. Replacements do not cover the gap created by the departure of 250 planes and helicopters

Air Force plans to operate only four fighter planes, including the F-15EX, F-16 and the undisclosed NGAD