@laraloretta2: An F-22 Raptor test aircraft has been spotted carrying advanced stealth pods and experimental skin coatings! 🦅🚨 I’m breaking down new footage of an F-22 flying under the callsign "FEVER21" near Edwards Air Force Base, featuring two specialized low-observable underwing pods. Analysts believe these pods house a long-awaited Infrared Search and Track system. While IRST was cut during the initial Advanced Tactical Fighter development program to reduce costs, this new podded solution allows the Raptor to search for and track heat signatures passively. This gives pilots long-range targeting against low-radar-cross-section threats without emitting radio frequency signals that reveal their presence. Additionally, the test aircraft featured unusually light-colored panels around its weapons bay doors and underbelly, hinting at testing for next-generation radar-absorbent materials or thermal-management coatings. These sensor and skin modifications demonstrate how the Air Force is modernizing the F-22 fleet to maintain dominance against modern fifth-generation threats. 🛩️👀 #F22 #F22Raptor #USAirForce #MilitaryTech #AviationNews
