An €11 billion modernization contract for the F-22 Ranger, covering sensors, weapons, open architecture, and operational longevity.
The F-22 Raptor remains a central part of US air superiority capabilities. In 2021, the US Air Force signed a modernization contract with Lockheed Martin worth approximately $10.9 billion, or approximately €11 billion, to support and strengthen this aircraft until 2031. Called Advanced Raptor Enhancement and Sustainment (ARES), the program covers maintenance operations, targeted technological upgrades, and the deployment of new equipment. It aims to extend the F-22’s relevance beyond 2030, maintaining a tactical advantage over emerging threats.
The contract and its technical ambitions
Since 2021, the United States has committed nearly $11 billion (≈ €11 billion) to modernize the Raptor through the ARES program. This is an indefinite-delivery, indefinite-quantity contract, scheduled to run until the end of October 2031. The value of the program includes logistics services, modernization kits, and technological upgrades. This financial package is part of a strategy to extend the service life of the F-22, while providing it with the means to remain competitive in an increasingly competitive international environment. In the face of advances by the Chinese and Russian air forces, this funding will enable the aircraft to maintain its sensory and operational advantage.
Major technological upgrades
The upgrades are based on a modular open architecture (MOSA), which will be introduced in 2021. The F-22 will be equipped with COTS (commercial-off-the-shelf) mission computers adapted to military environments, enabling more frequent and responsive updates that are less dependent on traditional waterfall cycles. Electronic warfare systems, the integration of AIM-9X and AIM-120D, Link 16 data links and Mode 5 identification functions have also been added. In addition, there are all-azimuth IRST sensors, MW-JTRS architecture, and the ability to operate with loyal wingmen drones in a MOSA-managed environment. Flight testing of the AIM-260 JATM missile, which will enhance long-range air-to-air capability, has been well underway since 2023-2024.
Strategic and operational challenges
The ARES program responds to a clear imperative: maintaining air superiority even with the future NGAD (Next Generation Air Dominance) still in development. The modernized F-22 now plays an intermediate pivot role between existing fleets and the entry into service of the NGAD—a complete sixth-generation weapons system that will combine manned aircraft and cooperating drones. However, the NGAD program is facing budgetary pressures, with proposals to reduce personnel, shift focus to drones, or simplify platforms. In this context, keeping the F-22 operational provides strategic reassurance, guaranteeing an immediate and robust response capability in high-intensity scenarios.
Political implications and industrial outlook
In May 2025, political statements reignited the debate. President Trump announced plans for an “F-22 Super”, a highly modernized version of the Raptor, without specifying the details. He stressed that even though the aircraft is not part of the USAF’s long-term plan, a spectacular upgrade could be necessary. At the same time, he confirmed the planned replacement by the F-47, the NGAD platform chosen to succeed the Raptor. This double discourse reveals a tension between maintaining an existing technological advantage and betting on the future. For Lockheed Martin, this modernization contract guarantees a high level of industrial activity until 2031. At the same time, Boeing embodies the possible future, through the NGAD program and the F-47 line.
This program, worth nearly $11 billion, is less glamorous than a brand-new replacement, but more pragmatic. It extends the operational life of a necessary aircraft, which is often underestimated in the short cycles of defense budgets. The objective is clear: to maintain real air superiority until the next generation is ready. This avoids a costly strategic gap in expertise, training, and credibility. The aviation industry will certainly benefit. But the military will retain a reliable, modular tool that can evolve with the times.