The U.S. Air Force is set to pump nearly $7.8 billion into F-22 Raptor upgrades through 2029, marking a strategic shift to extend the jet’s operational relevance well into the 2030s. The bulk of this—$4.7 billion—is earmarked for procurement, while $3.1 billion supports research, development, testing, and evaluation efforts.Two new key technologies will be incorporated.The upgrade program will outfit the 142 Block 30/35 F-22 Raptors with Low-drag external fuel tanks and a next-generation Infrared Defensive System (IRDS). In this video, Defense Updates analyzes how $7.8 billion upgrade package will enhance the F-22 Raptor’s capabilities ?#defenseupdates #f22raptor #f22 Chapters:0:00 TITLE00:11 INTRODUCTION01:05 SPONSORSHIP – NordVPN01:39 LOW DRAG TANKS AND PYLONS (LDTP)03:43 IRDS with TacIRST07:05 ANALYSIS