The F-16 Fighting Falcon and the F-22 Raptor are two of the U.S. Air Force’s most important fighter jets. Each plays a distinct role in maintaining air superiority and projecting American power around the world.
But what are the key differences between these two aircraft? This article breaks down their history, capabilities, costs, and deployment strategies to help you understand how they stack up against each other.
From design to deployment, the F-16 and F-22 reflect very different philosophies, the F-16’s versatility versus the F-22’s laser focus on air superiority.