# F-22 Raptor sensor and stealth upgrades

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/f-22-raptor-sensor-and-stealth-upgrades
> Updated: 2026-10-10T06:16:00.000Z. Sources: 3. Developments: 2.

The U.S. Air Force is conducting upgrades and flight testing for the F-22 Raptor to maintain air superiority against modern adversaries. Initial testing focused on the aircraft performing aggressive maneuvers near Edwards Air Force Base with distinctive low-observable underwing sensor pods designed for passive detection, such as infrared or electro-optical sensing.

These developments have expanded to include significant enhancements to address operational weaknesses. New Infrared Search-and-Track (IRST) capabilities are being integrated to provide autonomous target identification, a feature previously omitted due to budget constraints. To improve combat radius, the aircraft is being equipped with specialized stealth external fuel tanks, extending its range from approximately 1,093 kilometers to 1,575 kilometers. Future iterations may also focus on electronic warfare and coordination with Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) drones.

## Timeline

### 2026-10-10: F-22 Raptor receives stealth upgrades and new sensors

The F-22 Raptor is receiving stealth fuel tanks and infrared sensor upgrades to extend its range and targeting capabilities ahead of the arrival of sixth-generation fighters.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/f-22-raptor-receives-stealth-upgrades-and-new-sensors

### 2026-09-28: F-22 Raptor undergoes aggressive flight testing with new sensor pods

The U.S. Air Force is testing new low-observable underwing sensor pods on F-22A Raptors near Edwards Air Force Base to enhance passive detection of stealth threats.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/f-22-raptor-undergoes-aggressive-flight-testing-with-new-sensor-pods

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Cite as: F-22 Raptor sensor and stealth upgrades. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/f-22-raptor-sensor-and-stealth-upgrades