The Lockheed Martin/Boeing F-22 Raptor, an all-weather stealth aircraft designed for the United States Air Force (USAF) in the 1990s, continues to be a significant asset. Despite being considered an unsuccessful program by some, the F-22 platform has potential for future service due to its open system architecture.
One of the first combat aircraft with this feature, the F-22's open system architecture allows for digital optimization and modular improvements. "Agile software development, open system architecture, and digital engineering methods are expected to work together to strengthen the platform further," according to Lockheed Martin.
A key capability of the F-22 is its connectivity with other platforms through Link 16. This enables data sharing and communication with various aircraft such as the F-35 Lightning II and F-15 Eagle. Lockheed Martin states, "The Link 16 transmit capabilities included in F-22 Raptor Agile Capability Release (RACR) Release 1 will enable the two-way exchange of J-series messages (Link 16) between the F-22 and other Link 16-enabled aircraft."