Raptor's limits: Why it can't land on aircraft carriers

The development history of the F-22 explains some of these limitations. Designed under the Advanced Tactical Fighter program beginning in 1981, it was intended to counter Soviet threats rather than operate from carriers. The focus was on stealth and maneuverability rather than naval capabilities.

Lockheed Martin developed the Raptor without considering carrier compatibility due to weight constraints and design priorities such as high-speed performance facilitated by its delta wing design.

Despite interest in potentially modifying Raptors for naval use, practical considerations prevail. Modifications necessary for carrier landings would compromise stealth features and increase costs significantly. As noted by experts, "It was far cheaper and simpler for the US Navy to use its own aircraft than to develop a Raptor variant."

Instead of adapting existing models like the F-22 for naval operations, newer alternatives have been pursued. The US Navy now utilizes Lockheed Martin’s F-35C Lightning II designed specifically for carrier operations with features like reinforced landing gear.

As both branches continue developing their next-generation fighters through distinct programs—the USAF with NGAD and the Navy with F/A-XX—carrier compatibility may not be a shared priority unless explicitly needed by mission requirements.

The future holds possibilities but also separates paths as each branch focuses on fulfilling their unique operational needs while maintaining air superiority across different environments.