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Lockheed Martin's F-22 Raptor Model Features Low-Observable Fuel Tanks and Infrared Sensor Pods.
A scale model of the F-22 Raptor displayed at the Air & Space Forces Association Warfare Symposium on February 23, 2026, showed the aircraft fitted with low observable external drop tanks and underwing infrared search and track pods. The configuration points to potential efforts to extend the Raptor’s operational range while enhancing passive detection capabilities for high-end peer conflict environments.
On February 23, 2026, an X post published by @AlexHollings52 revealed images of a scale model displayed at the Air & Space Forces Association Warfare Symposium showing a new configuration of the F-22 Raptor. The model featured low-observable external drop tanks and underwing infrared search and track pods. The visual disclosure quickly generated attention within defense circles due to its implications for stealth operations and extended combat reach. The information is derived from an X post documenting the exhibit floor display, with no official technical specifications released at the time.
A scale model of the F-22 Raptor displayed at the Air & Space Forces Association Warfare Symposium 2026 revealed a previously unseen configuration featuring low observable external fuel tanks and underwing infrared search and track pods, signaling potential upgrades aimed at extending range and enhancing passive detection in contested airspace (Picture Source: X-account/@AlexHollings52)
The configuration presented in the model suggests that Lockheed Martin is exploring options to enhance the operational flexibility of the F-22 while preserving its low observable characteristics. Historically, the aircraft has relied on internal fuel storage and internal weapons bays to maintain a reduced radar cross-section. The addition of specially shaped external tanks suggests an effort to extend range while mitigating the radar penalties traditionally associated with conventional drop tanks.
External fuel tanks typically increase radar signature and aerodynamic drag, limiting their suitability in high-threat environments. The tanks depicted on the model appear to incorporate shaping aligned with stealth design principles, indicating attempts to reduce radar reflections and maintain aerodynamic efficiency. If fielded operationally, such tanks could increase the aircraft’s combat radius and loiter time without significantly compromising survivability during critical mission phases, particularly in contested airspace.
The inclusion of infrared search and track pods represents an equally consequential development. IRST systems enable passive detection and tracking of airborne targets by sensing thermal signatures, eliminating the need to emit radar signals that could reveal the aircraft’s position. Although mounted externally, the pods appear optimized for signature management. In environments characterized by advanced electronic warfare and anti-access strategies, passive sensing enhances survivability and situational awareness. These systems could expand the F-22’s ability to detect stealth aircraft, cruise missiles, or other low-observable threats at extended ranges.
Combining extended fuel capacity with passive detection capabilities reinforces the F-22’s first-look, first-shot advantage. Greater range allows deeper penetration into contested zones, longer patrol durations, and expanded defensive counter-air coverage. Enhanced sensor capability improves target acquisition while maintaining electromagnetic discretion, strengthening the aircraft’s air dominance role in high-intensity peer conflict scenarios.
Strategically, an F-22 configured with low-observable tanks and IRST pods aligns with evolving operational concepts emphasizing distributed operations across vast theaters such as the Indo-Pacific. Extended reach reduces dependence on vulnerable forward bases that may be exposed to long-range missile strikes and increases deployment flexibility. By pairing endurance with advanced sensing, the aircraft could function as a more resilient node within a networked force architecture, contributing to deterrence through sustained, survivable presence.
The model displayed at the AFA Warfare Symposium and highlighted on February 23, 2026 by @AlexHollings52 points toward a potential evolution in how the F-22 Raptor may be equipped for future missions. The integration of low-observable external tanks and IRST pods reflects an effort to balance stealth, endurance, and sensor superiority within a single platform. Whether this configuration remains conceptual or progresses toward operational implementation will depend on future clarification from industry and the U.S. Air Force, but the concept itself signals a continued focus on extending the aircraft’s reach and preserving its relevance in contested air environments where range and information dominance are decisive.